[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

Originally posted by brownie_57
I officiated a freshman tournament basketball game tonight and after the game a situation occured. My partner and I agreed we called a good, fair game. Although it might not be customary, at this age level I tend to stay on the court and shake both coach's hands after the game and tell them good game. All have obliged so far in my 2 years as an official, until tonight. When I went to shake the losing coach's hand (who lost by about 20), he refused to shake my hand and made this statement, "you are the worst officials I have ever seen." This normally wouldn't upset me, but the fact that he did it in front of both team's players and the fans essentially showed that it was okay to disrespect the officials at a sporting event. I plan to write a letter to the Illinois High School Association about his behavior. Is there anything that I should have done differently regarding this situation or are there any recommendations on things that I could do still to help the situation?

You have received some very good advice, once the final horn sounds get off the court and into your dressing room. Now I have to ask one question: Do you officiate soccer?

MTD, Sr.