Quote:
Originally posted by JEL
Well, thats OK. To clarify, I do not say "this is a warning" in pre game, as inferred in post, I do try and emphasize that I will not allow arguements. The sentence (at pre-game) ends after "we will not argue". I will also always state, coaches are welcome to call time after play is finished, and we will discuss the call if you wish. I doubt I have ever antagonized a coach in a pre game this way. As for pre-emptive warnings, IMO the rule book is the warning, I need not warn at all.
Any comment (not agreeing with you) can be construed as questioning your integrity. Its easy, for me at least, to realize the fun, or humorous stuff, from the serious insults, and again, most of what I hear in the stands, I tend to ignore.
Each situation is as diverse as the umpires calling the games. That is why good judgment, and common sense should always prevail.
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In a pre-game, I introduce the crew, double-check line-up cards, offer the ground rules and, if necessary, flip a coin.
Anyone who has worked a game with me knows that when I give the ground rules, you better be listening because I run through them quick enough I demand their attention. I know what they are before I walk on the field and at times will not even take my eyes off the coaches during my offering.
I do not offer any type of "warnings" or indication of expected behavior. The coaches expect me to know what my responsibilities are and, in turn, I expect the same from them. If they are not capable of that, I consider it that much more an edge I have in controling the game.
The coin flip is always the last event. If there is a clock on the game, I will take my watch off my wrist and show both team representatives the time. As they walk away, I inform them that they are now on the clock.
All I can say is that it works for me.