[Jurassic Referee]

Originally Posted by M&M Guy

About 2-3 years ago, I believe the NFHS came out with an article in their pre-season magazine covering this very topic; it may have even been a POI. Basically, while it did acknowledge officials need to be aware of situations where a team and coach may request a TO, the article was directed at coaches, explaining that the officials' first responsibility is the action on the court, and there may indeed be times where the officials may not hear a proper request. Even if the request is heard, the officials need to verify it actually was the HC that made the request, and also verify that it was requested at the proper time (such as player control on the floor). If those things cannot be verified, the officials cannot grant the TO, no matter how loud the coach yells for it.

Very astute, Mr. M.

POE #3 from the 2008-09 NFHS rulebook on TIMEOUTS:

The proper granting of time-outs continues to be of great concern. During live ball situations, it is imperative that officials ensure player control before granting a time-out request. Additionally, officials must ensure that the time-out request is coming from a player or the head coach of the team in control. Coaches must realize that officials have other responsibilities to the game that require their immediate attention. As a result, coaches must understand that just because a time-out was requested does not mean that time-out will be granted.

You are wise beyond your years.