[JRutledge]

I just wanted you to understand that people look at their games differently and lower levels differently. I see and understand your way of thinking. Actually, I once shared that ideal. I have changed because after doing varsity for awhile I see why everyone wants to be there. The games are so much easier from a calling aspect. But what most do not understand is that the pressure raises significantly. It is totally different to have a game that only the fans in the stands see as important, than have your mistakes all over the Chicago Sun Times or on CLTV(Chicagoland Television) and Channal 2 CBS News (Had a football game that was on all three media outlets. Kind of fresh in the mind). Tommorrow I have my first playoff game in Football at one of the better programs in our state, of course it is fun but the pressure and the scrutiny will be much greater. Also the praise is great if you do well.

I kind of look at it this way, Minor League players stay in the minor leagues to get to "The Show." The same goes for officials. The hotels are better, the locker rooms are better, there are more girls and the praise is greater when you are successful. So just like anything, officials that see officials from the "show" work, that is where many want to be. I love the game like I am sure you or all of us love the game. I love it everytime I show up and blow the whistle. Why do you think I do three sports? I obviously cannot get enough. But I will admit that my pep in my step is a little quicker when I have a good varsity football or basketball game. But when I get there regardless of level I put my best foot forward. If I keep the same enthusiasm for every game that I do for certain games, I might be burned out by the end of the season. But as you can see I am an intense guy. I just rambled on about something that means little to nothing to most reading it. Gotta love officiating.

Just keep loving officiating regardless of what you are doing. That is what is important.

Peace