[zebraman55]

For the record, I, as umpire on our HS crew, approve all balls. If the ball is adequate (doesn't "squish" too much), I hand it to my referee for confirmation. I then use a "sharpie" to mark both the laces and the opposite panel with the schools initials. If it doesn't bear our crew's mark, then the BJ doesn't allow the ball person to bring it in the game. (OR LJ if on PAT, HL on kickoffs).

Funny story, but true! Several years ago, our crew was working an IHSA (Illinois) initial round playoff game with two somewhat small schools. The visiting team was a private school from Chicago, not very large. Prior to the game, the referee and umpire went to the visiting team locker room for the pre-game conference with the coach. With this trusty pressure gauge, the referee asked the visiting coach for the game ball. The coach presented a brand new ball. The referee then pushed the pressure gauge into the bladder to check the pressure and popped the bladder! Embarrassed and apologetic, he asked the coach for a second ball. The second ball, somewhat used, was also tested for proper pressure. And, without missing a stride, the referee popped the bladder on the second ball as well! The visiting team ended up using the home team's game ball. Fortunately, the coach was a good sport about it, and even teased us during the game.

After the game, we all pitched in and purchased two brand new balls for the school!

Be careful where you stick that thing!

zeb