Quote:
Originally posted by ABoselli
I don't have my book open to refer to when posting. I know the rules because I think it's important to know the rules. Just like the kids think its important to practice to play the game, I think its important to practice to officiate it. Imagine a QB who gives the playbook a passing glance but would rather rely on his 'game sense' to carry the day. "Don't worry coach, you get too bogged down in plays and such, all you need is game sense!"
If you put enough time and discussion into it, you will learn them and be able to apply them when on the field. A good feel for the game is always wrapped around a solid knowledge of the rules.
Don't bother with the 'right out of the case book' examples you plan on trotting out. I'll bet most of us here are pretty familiar with them already. Why not try to give yourself a wierd situation and see if you can rule correctly?
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Aboselli,
Having a "feel for the game" is what separates the GREAT players from those who are good players. You can study the rules all you want (and you must) but you never elevate your game to the next level until you develop your feel or sense for the game. You see, having "game sense" is knowing when to abandon the rules (or in the case of the QB, when to abandon your pocket protection).
Officiating is pretty much the same. If you want to truly become a great official, know the rules but don't forget your "game sense".