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Your whistle is one of many "tools" that you have to control a game or establish your presence. In this scenario, I would blow the whistle and make the physical signal of "T" and distinguish the player. This not only grabs everyones attention, but also let's players, fans, coaches, etc. know that I've seen a specific act. Often times players retaliate if they think that no one saw the act or that no punishment is coming. The whistle provides a definitive point in time that the act occurs - it helps to combat the: "what did I do?", "didn't you see him?", "when did that happen?" - questions.
As for getting in between players, I'll give it an honest effort. If it gets too volatile, then I'm more inclined to back off and just take numbers and try to restore calm by voice, presence, and proximity. I'm not interested in getting in front of punches (or kicks, helmets, and body slams like the U. of Miami vs FIU football officials).
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Jeff Pearson
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