[M&M Guy]

Two thoughts come to mind - first, how was this a judgement call? This sounds like a straight, by-the-book rules violation. Where was the judgement involved? Maybe the kid (or, more likely his parents) thought there should be judgement in setting aside a rule just for him.

Second, why does NY law allow for challenging decisions in an athletic setting? Why even allow that possibility?

This would be no different than say, A1 hitting a shot at the buzzer to win a game by 1, and taking off his jersey in celebration right in front of me. I would have no choice but to issue the T, and let B shoot free throws to win the game. Unpopular? By all means. Judgement? Nope; pretty straightforward. I gotta give both referees in that match kudos for making that call - they both had the kahunas about the size of a certain squirrel that shows up around here occasionally.