[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

Originally Posted by wvumpire1807

I ahve been officiating for 10 years now. 5 years ago I stopped wearing a lanyard. I have developed a system for myself to not wear one and not drop my whstle. I ahvent dropped my whistle in 4 years. Recently a coach told me i needed to wear one that it looked unprofessional. I simply replied, how come a lot of NBA and college officials dont wear one? Why wear one if it doesnt slow down the game and is comfortable to me? Any feedback would be appreciated.

1) I cannot remember the last time I saw a college official at any level NOT using a lanyard.

2) I do know that there are one or two still NOT wearing a lanyard in the NBA, but that does NOT make it correct.

3) The lanyard is hitting you in the face? Use a Smitty; they come in a variety of lengths. Tell Torch I sent you (referee, umpire, supplies, equipment, basketball, football, baseball, shirts, shoes, accessories, athletic, price, quality, face masks, whistles, officials, sports).

4) I personally know a number of college assigners who require their officials to use a lanyard or they do NOT officiate.

5) Every official who took my officiating class knew that I had better NOT see them without a lanyard when officiating.

6) An official who does NOT use a lanyard looks like a juggling clown on the court.

MTD, Sr.