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Gentlemen
What we are dealing with here, is called PERCEPTION.
In officiating any sport, there are those that believe that the stern, almost statue-like performance is the mark of a excellence in a great official. Then there are those that understand that we are all human beings before and after we put our uniforms on to officiate. But this is no different than our everyday life.
I work in the Engineering Profession and believe me, there is nothing more disturbing than those people that call theirself a professional, and at a drop of bucket sell their integrity for the sake of a dollar.
I also officiate Baseball and Ice Hockey and when the day comes that I can't enjoy what I'm doing, then its time to give it up. I have had evaulators state to me,that it sometimes looks that I am not serious about what I'm doing, because I look like I'm having a good time. PERCEPTION
By the same token I have been chastised by those that believe you should never crack a joke in a serious business meeting. PERCEPTION
To them I say "WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE"
20 & 30 years ago this was the accepted norm. But in today's world we need more officials that show their human side and can still go out there and gain their respect by the job they perform and not how someone has perceived them.
Yes, looking the part is important and there has to be boundries that we never cross but, IMO that what I call, the military approach to life is NOT the way to go.
Don't get me wrong, I can't picture the bottom of the ninth of the World Series, tie score, 2 outs, bases loaded and (one of my favorites),Mickey Mantle stepping up to the plate. The PU looks at MM and says "So hows the wife and kids, Mick. Hey I heard a great joke last night". That PU knows what being a Professional Official truly means and repects the players as he has gained the players respect.
But, I would not see anything wrong whatsoever if after MM hit a towering 420ft Grand Slam, the official said to him, "Great Hit Mick".
Working hard to get the calls right, being respectful, listening and being courtious to the players no matter what age, and being fair has worked for me. Showing that I care and understand, yet being able to to be firm and take control along with the above, has earned me respect.
The rest of the garbage, PERCEPTION!!!!!!!!!!!!!Based upon opinions. And we know everyone has one.
JUST MY TWO PENNIES.
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