Hey, parepat
I think the point being made by those that disagree is that having the rule book on the field is a solution for a problem that doesn't exist. My guess is that most crews make the correct rulings +95% of the time. Sure there are mistakes, but many times it's a matter of lack of attention vs. lack of rule knowledge. And, officiating is one of the few avocations where you're expected to be perfect and improving all of the time.
Having said that, I do agree that most of us would do about anything to get a call right on the field and not make a mistake. Anything except consult the rule book on the field. It's not arrogance, it's what is expected of every official. Rules study, understanding the proper mechanics and philosophy of the game is important to study BEFORE YOU GET ON THE FIELD. For reasons of both perception and game flow (both mentioned before), it's not practical to consult the rule book on the field.
What's expected of officials is to be PREPARED before you walk on to the field. Will we kick some? Sure, and that should be expected because we're not perfect. If having a rule book on the field to get every rule enforced correctly was as important as you deem it to be, don't you think that from youth leagues on up you would be encouraged to carry a rule book in your back pocket? Don't you think that Honig's would publish a pocket version?
Wouldn't this practice be encouraged or mandated by all associations at all levels?
The game should expect a lot from officials. However, when you expect perfection, you will be disappointed and can't put enough mechanisms in place to guarantee it.
I am proud that most officials I know can take the field without a book and get it right on almost every play!
