[johnny1784]

Originally posted by M&M Guy

We've been awaiting your enlightenment for years...

However, I agree with you. There is a comment about blowing the whistle after an undue delay of some sort, but there is no whistle or spoken mechanic for starting a normal OOB play. It is exactly like the tipped (foul) ball signal. Just because you see several people use it doesn't mean its acceptable. As officials we need to be as uniform and consistent as possible, because that is our communication. The communication needs to be the same in Philly, Dallas and Portland. It is not our job to bring the other team back from la-la land, if they aren't paying attention. If we do our job correctly, in the proper sequence, then we are in effect penalizing the one team that is ready when they're supposed to be, if the other team isn't ready.

Valid points but you or my written post was misunderstood. I am referring to resumption of play and not when team A is late or won’t stand at the requested spot. I merely was using a comical moment when the thrower has his/her attention on team players or coach. No where in the manuals does it stipulate an official can not speak out loud to a player. May be your state association and or district area association does not permit certain communications during a throw-in but one should amend to use professional communication skills when necessary.