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One thing that I've gotten out of this year as an official is the importance of communication in all forms. Before this year, which was my first full varsity season, I thought that being a solid official was just knowing the rules, mechanics and making quality calls, now communicating with everyone has jumped up the list. This year I had a ton of technicals, all deserved in my opinion, but I feel that better communication and being more approachable was the key to limiting them. Rec ball and IMs are a great way to work on communicating. Preventing Ts through communication though doesn't mean not penalizing unsporting acts, but it means identifying problems and taking action before they escalate.
I had a situation last night in an IM game with a hothead who I've dealt with before in previous games. On my first 3 foul calls against his team, they complained, and I responded to the complaint in the manner it was made. The third time this guy bumped an opponent with his chest and I called the foul, he complained and I barked at him a bit, and came across harshly. During a TO a bit later I told the guy, "I know I'm coming across as a hardass, and I'm not trying to be one, but you guys got on me after every call. Now if you got a question about a call and ask about it politely, I'll be happy to answer, but not every time." The rest of the game I had no problems with the guy or anyone else on his team. I think in IMs you've gotta draw the line and be willing to call the Ts, but barking at them a bit and talking to them I think can help too. In terms of the cursing that was mentioned before, if it was directed at me, flagrant T, automatic and he's gonna have to chase me down to get another one.
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