[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

Originally posted by Jerry
Some of my detractors are under the impression that all games must be played according to FED rules. There are even those that would refuse to officiate a game that uses modified rules in their leagues. As an "Independent Contractor", I am free to officiate whatever contests I desire. If a league that doesn't use the BESR bat requirement desires to hire me . . . or one that allows the use of a tree branch for a bat and purses for bases . . . I'm obligated to enforce those rules for that contest.

As adjudicators of the rules for a particular game in which we're officiating, it becomes paramount that we be familiar with those rules. On the same hand, we have no authority to impose our own beliefs and personal interpretations on that game. To require the use of BESR bats in a game that doesn't require them is, in my opinion, irresponsible.

So, specifically to Mark and Rog (who is choosing to ignore reading this), If I'm assigned to work one of those games with you; you're correct, I'll be doing them alone and collecting your pay.

Jerry, my problem is that you think that it is okay to ignore safety rules just to get the game played. When one is hired to officiate a sports event, ethics required that person to enforce the saftey rules of the sport. To not enforce the safety rules and to still accept payment for officiating the game would be a breach of ethics and unprofessional conduct. As officials we do not care whether the teams do not like the fact that the game will not be played because of a safety issue, that is why we are paid the big dollars to make these kind of decisions. Either you will follow the safety rules when you officiate with me or I will do the game by myself and I will get your game fee too, or you will officiate the game by yourself and I will still get my game fee.