[Ref Daddy]

Last night I lingered at a varsity game. I had the 2 previous JV games opening up District play in our area.

I took the liberty of sitting at an empty chair at the scores table and had a chance to observe 2 very senior pro's (20+ years each) from our association and was right within ear shot of the Varsity coach and his 2 young assistants that we had worked with the two previous games.

It was a great refresher.

I was reminded that coach's will go to any extent to create favor. In the blink of an eye from celebrating to dispair. Making every call for the referee's their teams way. Swearing, cursing, cheering. What a roller coaster.

My favorite event: Coach was bouncing up early in the game. Ref comes over in a break and gently, quietly says "Coach, new rule this year - you must stay in the box".

Coach:"Box? What box? Where is the box?" Scans the floor.

Ref: "Right here sir. These two lines". All very quiet - I was right under them and was probably the only person in the gym that heard the exchange. Well done.

Next live ball coach is wandering again. Official blows whistle. Formal loud verbal warning from the top free throw circle (same official) - "Coach - Warning. You are to remain in the coach's box". He was lazer beamed eye to eye with the coach. Turned and went about his business administering free throws.

I watched the coach and assistants the remainder of the game. They got the message and it was needed.

Game management is equal to Coach management.