[JRutledge]

This is my opinion. I do not expect you or anyone to agree with my point of view on this or anything. Not everyone holds the same point of view on politics and I am sure they are not going to hold the same views on what it takes to be a good official.

You are right that no one gets downgraded for not having good presence, but they never get on the court if they do not. When I have a coach complain to me or any other official about a rules mistake that happens in their favor, let me know. Espcially when those rules debate with coaches come with Pro and College references that do not apply to the HS level in which most of us officiate. My football season is almost over and everytime a coach complains about the rule they talk about NFL and NCAA rules and how your call has to do with what you see on Sunday and Saturday. It almost is never about the NF rule or reference (uncatchable balls, hallo rule, chucking within 5 yards just to name a few).

If you feel that rules and only rules will get you over the top. But just like Millionares debate over how the became rich or Sales people debate over how they get the big sale, we will disagree about what it takes to become a good official. I know one thing, if you officiate in the old Chicago Public League Red West or the Chicago Catholic League, you better have some people skills to deal with that situation. Quoting rules will get you no where.

Peace