Quote:
Originally Posted by justacoach
I have been having an ongoing rules discussion with a very seasoned official who keeps referring to the "Spirit of the Rules" as justification for what I consider bogus rules interps.
Is this an NFHS publication?
Is it only available to highly experienced officials?
Where can I get my copy?
Please help me since I have been told that without the knowledge embodied in this great work that I will never advance beyond just being a "Rule Book Ref".  |
Same old, same old....
A lot of guys use that when they're trying to justify screwing up or not knowing a rule. All they're basically tryingt to tell you is that the rulebook is wrong and they're right. And trying to mask their lack of rules knowledge by calling you a "rule book ref" (as if that's bad) is an old trick of their's too. It's a waste of time arguing with clowns like this.
The NFHS has issued the exact same statement for umpty-ump years at the front of the rule book, on p. 10 just before Rule 1. The FED talks about knowing and applying the "intent and purpose of a rule". But, the point that your friend is missing is that they also always sum up that section with
"It is the policy of the NFHS basketball Rules Committee that there be no deviation from a rule unless experimental approval has been granted by the NFHS liason to the rules committee." Point that out to him and see what he has to say.