Thread: Crew Harmony
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Old Fri Feb 20, 2004, 12:11pm
Doc-WI Doc-WI is offline
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Join Date: Oct 2003
Posts: 18
This type of behavior definately requires a PRIVATE, one-on-one discussion with your HL. Give him a chance to speak first. Ask him something like, "I'm a little concerned about what happened on the field, what are your thoughts on the situation?" After you hear what he says, you'll have a better idea of where you next need to go to solve the problem. (ie Was it just a bad day, is there a personality conflict, ect)
However, no matter what the reason, it should be made VERY clear to him that this type of unprofessional behavior will not be tolerated regardless of the cause.
There's a right way and a wrong way to deal with coaches, players, and especially other officials while on the field.
1. Never, NEVER lose your cool. No matter what the situation, score of the game, or emotional level of others, keep yourself in "emotional cruise control" throughout the game.
2. Never be overly demonstrative when discussing a situation. Don't shake your head, don't throw your hands around in disgust or point at someone. When reporting a foul to the white hat don't pantomime what the player did. Controlled verbal communication only.
3. If you do think another official needs help or made a mistake go directly to him, hopefully before he reports anything to the white hat. In the situation above the HL should have gone to the LJ and R conference, waited until the LJ finished and then ask the LJ something like, "did you see the other player do anything?" This will usually trigger a conversation in which the correct call can be made. Don't say something like, "No, that's wrong," "that's not what I got" ect ect. Always remember their are listening ears all over the field and sideline just waiting for something like that to jump on. Another thing, if you are the calling official and a partner comes to you and says, "what did you see?" That's the code words for "let's talk we might have a problem." Don't be prideful, listen to what he's got to say then discuss the situation together in a professional manner, both stating the facts as you see them then come to a decision.
If both officials are equally sure of their call, then enter the white hat to settle the problem. In my experience as white hat, 99% of the discussions are decided before I even get there.

Sorry this got a little long. Hope that helps.
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