[stripes]

I got into this kind of late, but I have some issues with the discussion.

Sorry this is so long.

First, I don't think that there should be any issue with the T situation that Chuck gave. He warned the coach properly and gave the coach a way out. Coach didn't want it, Chuck responded properly.

Juulie--if a coach is on the floor and is angry with you or says anything to you--it is automatic. I appreciate that you are trying to be diplomatic and helpful, but the best help we give, IMO, is punishing the offenders. This coach clearly was out of line. Three steps on the court and yelling about fouls? Those are the easiest ones to me. I believe (firmly) that the others who have said not to call a T in this instance are wrong. IMO, these are the ones you have to call.

Rockyroad wrote about T's making the game better. I believe that this is a case where a T would have helped. The coach would have to settle down or he would not have coached anymore that game.

Jeffref wrote about the two catagories for T's. Under the "automatic" catagory he wrote "disrespecting the crew." How is standing on the court and yelling about calls (or lack thereof) not disrespecting your crew's ability? He is saying (to the whole gym, mind you) that you and your partner do not know what a foul is or that you don't have the guts to call it. Once again, this is an automatic T.

Generally as HS officials, I believe that we take way too much crap from coaches. I have never really understood why. The coaches are expected to know the rules of decorum for their conduct and I expect them to abide by those rules. If they don't, there will be a consequence.

The other part of this situation is, how are you percieved as an official based on your actions? I can tell you that if I were evaluating the game, your strength as an official would be in question. Do you have the courage to do what is right? Can you make a tough call, especially if you know it will be unpopular? Can you handle the heat associated with a tough call? These things are what gets used as criteria for moving people up the officiating ladder.

This is in no way a slam on anyone. I am trying to point out that too often we look for easy ways out instead of bucking up and doing what we should.