[rwest]

Originally Posted by NCASAUmp

You are operating under the delusion that I'm delusional about it being a two-way street.

However, the respect is a two-way street. I respect coaches. I may not like them, and they may not like me. There are teams that I don't like. There are teams that I can barely stand. There are players that I downright loathe. There are games that I work that, upon my arrival, a part of me groans when I see who is playing whom.

However, at the start of each new game, each team has my respect. By that, I mean that I will speak to them respectfully. I will not speak down to them by addressing men as "son" or "boy," or by addressing women as "honey," "sweetie, or darlin'." I will, regardless of any history, give each participant a "fresh start." I will do everything in my power as a human being (flawed as I may be) to not allow any past or current grievances to unduly influence my judgment or rule interpretations.

I am a professional.

I expect and demand the same from the teams. If the participants of the game do not afford me the same respect I give to them, then the game breaks down, and I will do what I can to preserve the integrity of the game. If that means that players or coaches must leave, then so be it.

The bottom line is: if you respect my role in the game, I will extend you the same respect.

I agree completely. I should have put a smiley behind my comment! It was meant as a joke.