[JRutledge]

I think we can talk to fans and you should under the right circumstances. I think that standard is kind of silly for high schools considering that we can often be in their lap or face literally. If I did not talk to fans in my career sometimes then I can think of many problems arising.

That problem would be if you listened to them as to what your job is or isn't. Fans know little or nothing about professionalism of officials and if you were looking angry all the time they would accuses you of something else. The key is learning when to talk to fans at all. But this specific exchange was not necessary but if you are standing right in front of him, it might have looked worse if you ignored him completely.

Peace