[fullor30]

I had a sophomore boys tourney DH yesterday morning and my partner walks in and tells me it's his second high school game although he's worked 10-15 park district games, he needs some help. I thought he was kidding me at first as he was in his mid forties and I assumed he'd been at it awhile. It was fun and rewarding helping a new guy out and I remember starting out myself and having mostly understanding partners and a few condescending jerks along the way.

He was clearly nervous and I tried to keep him loose both in pregame and on the court. To his credit, his calls were fine, but really needed work on his mechanics. He admitted he has barely read any of the NFHS manuals and I told him I have the complete 'library' handy whenever I hit the throne.

All in all, he did a great job, and not a single peep from coaches other than a casual moan or beef.

I left the gym with having a nice workout, a few bucks in my pocket, and feeling good about helping a fellow ref.

Not a bad friday morning.