[Ed Hickland]

Originally Posted by ajmc

Perhaps I respond because I don't want the smell of your garbage to taint the stripes of my shirt.

So several States have outlawed this offense and vow to change the current NFHS rules. As we all know, they have the right to do whatever they want WITHIN THEIR STATE. Does any of that make this offense illegal under the NFHS code? I don't think so. Has the NFHS declared this offense illegal, I don't think so. We all vow to do a lot of things that never get done.

The point is the NFHS never intended the A-11. Unfortunately, I do not have the discussion around the numbering exception and why but one could imagine it was to allow on a scrimmage kick a number other than 50-79 to be the long snapper without having to manipulate his jersey. Not in the wildest dreams was the A-11 intended. The great thing about what has happened with the A-11 is various interpretations have ruled it legal or illegal and almost without a doubt NFHS will fill the loophole that allowed it. Read the proposed changes and it is obvious. My personal hope is somehow the numbering exception is not removed as one member of the rules committee wants to do.

...You had the options to totally ignore me, and my opinion, consider it and apply it as you deemed appropriate,

Whatever KB has said, concluded, opined, suggested or inferred that you find improper or objectional IS ON HIM, but that doesn't give you, or anybody else license to insult, accuse or dispariage him in return. Whatever you choose to say in return is ON YOU, and is not his fault, my fault or anyone else's fault.

I for one have said Coach Bryan's motivation was suspect and I think it still is. He could have easily run the A-11 at Piedmont there is the hills outside Oakland with the approval of the local officials. So why did he engage ESPN, the New York Times, etc.? You just don't expose anything to the length he has without some motivation. He is a salesman by his actions. He expects some return, albeit, public accolades, his legend, money... To question his motivation is not to insult, it is exactly that, Kurt why are you doing this? And, I have not seen one post where he answers that question completely. Until he does there will be speculation. After all, this is the United States and we have the right to speak as long as we do not defame.

We've all stepped over the line occassionally and most often correct things by simply realizing we may have, and step back. This nonsense has gone this far simply because you, and others, have elected to ride your high horse even higher, rather than simply step down.

A final point, which seems to escape some, is that this is an "Official's Forum" and, as is always the case (whether we like it or not), how we choose to say what we choose to say reflects on who we are, not only individually but collectively as well, especially when we're dealing with a non official. We all have some responsibility not to embarrass each other.

Maybe you should swallow a dose of the medicine you prescribe.