[JRutledge]

The more and more I officiate the less and less I find my self saying I have an "automatic." For one, the most obvious situations are never that easy. I do not see players slamming the ball down, so I cannot say how I would react to it if it took place. I used to say if a coach questions my integrity, but that is not automatic for me anymore. Anytime a coach points out the foul count, is that not questioning your integrity? I do not see other officials give a T for that. They might comment or ask them, "Are you questioning my integrity?" When I have said that to a coach they quickly back down or try to "clarify" their position. Even if a coach curses, it depends on what they are cursing about. I do think if a coach is getting personal you could give them a T, but that is open to interpretation. Calling me a name is getting personal, but so is making a comment about my officiating. I have never had a coach call me a name yet. I have had several question my ability as an official. I do not give Ts if a coach is complaining.

What I have found is if you say what you will do "automatically" you do not leave yourself any wiggle room. I do have things I will address. I do not condone all behavior. I just do not see a one size fits all solution to solving problems.

Peace