Quote:
Originally posted by JRutledge
I guess it really comes from where you live. I do not belong to groups or organizations that assign any games. The IHSA is not an official's association. The IHSA is an association of schools and they license officials in order to work those games. The only things they require are patches to signify that we are licensed with the IHSA. Flag patches are symbols that have nothing to do with officiating. Of course someone could "require" you wear such a patch. The problem is we are independent contractors (at least in our state) and that might open the assignors up for violating independent contractor laws. I have said before it amazes me how many are "slaves to their organizations," and here our organizations are there to train and recruit officials only. We are not trying to make people do anything that might have a political slant to it. Whether we like it or not, wearing an American Flag has political statements surrounding it. I am not sure many want to "go there." Obviously they could make such a requirement, but you might have to deal with a lawsuit to defend that position. Not sure many assignors or associations want to open themselves up for that kind of issue. After all they want to fill games, not alienate people that might work for them.
Peace
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So, can they make you wear a patch or not? In one post you say they can't (regarding a flag) and in another they say the do (regarding a IHSA patch). The only difference is what's on the patch. Whoever is in charge of licensing or assiging or certifying can make whatever they want a requirement...if you don't follow the requirement, you don't work. Its not a matter of being pertinent to officiating.
A patch is no different than the rest of the uniform. Why stripes? Why not a plaid? Why black shoes? None of those have any bearing on the quality of job that can or is done.