[M&M Guy]

In my basketball scenario, if we let the winning player take off his jersey (because, after all, it was in jubilation and in no way taunting or showing disrespect), what do we say to the losing coach who asks why we don't penalize it? Do we just tell them we don't like the way the rule is written, so we're not going to call it? I hope not. We can argue all day whether the rule is acceptable, but the point is, it's in the rule book. Yep, it's a "technicality", but it's a rule. Let's say a team is behind by one, A1 is running up the sideline, part of one foot steps on the sideline as he throws up the prayer at the horn, and it goes in. Do you allow the shot, because after all, it's just a little technicality about him stepping on the line? Hate to wave off a great shot like that, right? Well, no, of couse not. It may be an unpopular call, but that's what makes a great official - having the kahunas to make the unpopular, but right, call.

Remember, in the case of the basketball jersey, and apparently the equipment in wrestling, there is no judgement involved. And, it made it through the protest committee at the tournament as well, so if they would've felt it was some "minor technicality", wouldn't they have overturned the "nit-picky" officials? What if the wrestler was so happy to be in the match, and threw his headgear when he was introduced? If he was penalized the 2 points at the beginning, and still lost by 1, would any of these questions be asked?