After 20+ years of calling games, numbered in the 1000s, from every level from pee-wee to D1, you would think that you can handle anything that can be thrown at you during a game. At least I did until Tuesday night. That was the night that a player died on the floor during a game.
The reality that, instead of being in control of the situation, I was a helpless bystander as paramedics worked on the young man brought to reality in my mind how insignificant the game is, the time we devote to it, and all the accolades and honors bestoyed during the years.
What is more important now is the thoughts of all the times that I sacrificed by family and job in order to work a game. Yes, it was and still is important to me. But the reality check that was thrown in my face was very eyeopening.
I truly hope none of my fellow officials ever have to deal with such a situation, as I am sure that you did not talk about it during your pregame.
The rallying of many of my fellow officials to me after the game shows that we are indeed a very compashionate and caring group of individuals, and it has been very uplifting for me. I will be back on the court today, with a brand new perspective on the game.
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