Ahh, interesting replies. The rule that I mentioned uses the word "unsportsmanlike" for excessively swinging. In my judgment, if I thought the swinging was "excessive" and no contact was made AND there were opponents near by, I am T-ing the player. If the player is all alone and there is no danger to another player, I give a verbal warning. Now, what is "excessive"? That has always varied from official to official. I believe Ron posted that swinging from the shoulders was excessive. (I agree). I would like to take it one step further and say if the player had his/her elbows very high and spreadout and could easily "find a face of an opponent" and swung from the shoulders that is "excessive". Remember this is ruled as an unsportsmanlike technical.
Now how about a flagrant technical in this case? Whether contact was made or not, if the "intent" was there and the player was intending to take someone out, it probably could be deemed a flagrant technical. That would be a tough call and I am not sure I would make it unless actual contact was made. A flagrant carries with it ejection and missing the next scheduled game. I would use an unsportsmanlike player technical instead as the rule states.
Someone give an example of an intentional foul in this case as opposed to an unsportsmanlike technical. The penalty would be the same except where the ball is put in play.
Great input. Thanks all.
Gary
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