Quote:
Originally posted by regas14
I would say that at least 95% of officials do not make an intentional foul call according to the letter of the law.
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That's a good lesson to learn -- learn the "spirit and intent" of the rule, not (just) the "letter of the rule."
On the intentional fouls -- fouls from the front are usually not intentional; fouls from the back are more likely to be. Fouls away from the ball (and when not just "over aggressively" stopping the offensive player from getting to a spot) are more likley to be intentional than fouls on the player with the ball.
IF it's close, give the benefit of the doubt to the defense on the first one, but quietly admonish the defense to be sure they are "going for the ball." Give the benefit of the doubt to the offense on the next one.
Similarly, if it's not close (and not intentional), praise the defense for "going for the ball". Let them know that you're watching and properly giving the appropriate call on the first foul.