[Ralph Stubenthal]

Originally posted by Marty Rogers
Ralph: You bring up some good questions and observations regarding the differences in mechanics. Although some of the signals and procedures may be "sharp looking," or make more sense compared to others, it is important to use ONLY the correct ones. I mean the correct ones for the game you are officiating, whether it be HS, or college men or women. If a ref is working a NFHS game, he should follow their official's manual for signals, etc. Evaluators will not be impressed by college mechanics being used in a HS game.

NFHS referees should be able to work in any other state, with any other NFHS official, and be on the exact same page, mechanics-wise. As Chuck stated, some mechanics, or lack of mechanics, become customary in different regions. This is only because they choose or decide to "do their own thing," and ignore correct procedure.

Thanks Marty, I do understand that NFHS officials must use their mechanics only. I was just wondering how college mechanics varied from us and from each other. I am receiving some really interesting info in this thread, thanks, Ralph.