[JRutledge]

Last year our state implemented the mercy rule for all games. It was considered a disaster by many. The rule in the state's opinion created inconsistent officiating and was demeaning to the players that were getting blown out. Coaches did not like it because there kids that needed playing time could not play. This year they are only using the mercy rule in tournaments before February 1 at the discretion of the tournament director.

I personally started off the season last year with about 5 mercy rule games. Even though they do move along the game, the rule created an atmosphere that was not helpful to the game. I personally do not think it is good for the game of basketball. Mercy rules in other sports are more to help much better teams not get hurt by either a more physical team or to save arms in baseball and softball. Basketball is a game where the clock runs and no one really is any more in jeopardy of being hurt if the game continues like a football game.

Peace