Quote:
Originally Posted by Nevadaref
That's the gist of the criticism I've heard. People wanted me to come take the call because of what I felt the proper decision was.
My problem with doing that is that it makes my partner look really weak and the coaches then believe that he needs me to call the game for him. I've just ruined his credibility for the rest of the game.
Bottom line: Since the play was clearly not in my primary area, I didn't wish to undermine my partner. I know how I would feel if a play happened right in front of me and here came a guy running in from the other side of the court.
|
And this is the beauty and difficulty of officiating. In this play, you firmly believe that it would look bad IF you went in. There are others (and you have apparently ran into them) who firmly belive you look bad if you do NOT go in. IMO, the key is to respect the decision either way.
Again, IMO, the key take away is not THIS play, but a larger issue. Simply put, it is something that should be addressed pregame, especially if you are working with a new crew. For instance, let's say Jurrassic, Nevada and I are working a game together. (I will take a moment to let the EMT's revive Jurassic) ...... During the pregame, regardless who the R is, I would bring into the conversation how we want to handle coverage, double whistles, T's, and 'anything funky' Knowing that their school of thought is different than mine SHOULD not be a problem, and I should be expected to adapt. Conversely, if NEVADA was working with myself and MM, then he should feel comfortable and/or not get offended (which I am thinking he wouldn't) if we handle those situation different then he 'normally' does. (On a side note, if there is ambivelance, the R rules!)
Again, to me, it is not about backbone, gonadal fortitude or machismo. It is having 3 people wearing polyesther (or a nice micro mesh) being on the same team, being situationally aware and respecting one another.