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Originally Posted by badgerfan
I live in Florida, Pinellas County, and just finished my first year officiating basketball. After 20 years in Engineering/Sales, I made a career change and now have a schedule that allows me to referee basketball.
I worked about 40 Middle School games and the following are my observations.
1. It was a lot of fun
2. Coaches and fans DO respect an official who is cordial and makes an effort. I received many compliments from coaches and FANS--even while I was walking to my vehicle after a game, and fans while driving, complimented while in their vehicles.
3. At the younger age, players and coaches respect "educating" and helping the players.
4. Great exercise
5. Provides a better understanding of the game.
6. Coaches and fans DO have a right to criticize during a game. Most of the time, I missed a call or was out of position.
7. Management of the game is a lot more important than knowing the rules.
8. A great way to give back to the youth of America. While I was growing up a lot of people helped me.
9. Girls games, by far, are more difficult than boys games. I called three intentional fouls this year and all were for the girls.
10. About 1/3 of the veteran partners I had for Middle School games acted like it was "below them" to officiate these games. Veteran officials should realize that the school districts are their customers. Not surprisngly, the other 2/3 of my veteran partners were, by far, better officials.
Please share your comment/opinions.
More importantly, I will be back next year.
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My edits to a great end of year summary.....
#6 > Coach's and fans can comment, participate and contribute to the action. There is, unfortunately a limit to it and you'll see what I mean soon enough.
#7 > Game management cannot be overlooked and does not have its own rule book and test for each of us to apply. BUT, don't know the rules and its IMPOSSIBLE to develop effective management style and best efforts cannot overcome poor rules knowledge or application.