Quote:
Originally posted by ChuckElias
Quote:
Originally posted by Smitty
I think we understand each other. . .I just think in general, a guy should do his best to respect the game he's working as best he can and use the proper mechanics as best he can.
And I certainly have an appreciation for getting the calls right. That absolutely is the highest priority.
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We agree comletely. 
BTW, what keeps you moving so much that you've been in 5 associations in 11 years?!?!
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Ahhh, glad you asked. I originally started in upstate New York where I grew up. As soon as I was able, I moved out (those winters are harsh) to Orange County California and reffed there for a couple years while working in the defense industry. Then a democrat was elected and the defense jobs dried up, and I ended up moving to Albuquerque, NM (The worst association of all I've worked) for a year. Couldn't stand it there and moved back to California, but to the Bay Area (South Bay) and worked there for a few years. Then I was in that gray area on the cusp of moving up to varsity ball. I felt that in order to get there I would have to "play the political games" and sacrifice too much of my values in order to "fit in" with the very arrogant varsity guys in that association. I felt burnt out so I quit. 5 years later here I am in Portland Oregon with a fresh outlook and thought I'd give it another go. Turns out this is by far the best association of all that I've worked and everyone I've met so far (varsity or novice) is fantastic to work with.
As a caveat to the editorial comments about the South Bay Association, I have never cared what level I worked - I just do this because I enjoy it. I felt that the majority of the varsity refs in that association thought they walked on water and often talked down to every non-varsity official they came in contact with. One game that I specifically remember just before I quit, my partner got a call wrong. It didn't affect the result of the game but it was a blown call. So be it. After the game, some guy in plain clothes comes down on the floor and gets right in the face of my partner reading him the riot act. So I jump in and ask him who the hell he thinks he is. He tells me he's one of the varsity refs for the next game. Never introduced himself as an official, never asked about the call, just jumped in my partner's face with nothing but cut-downs. Who needs that? It took the fun out of it for me, and so that's why I quit. I actually recommend anyone who feels a little burnt or isn't having the fun they once had to take a year or two off. My mechanics are surprisingly still sharp and I feel great. I find myself loving it again.