[DaveASA/FED]

Got to work with "that" official the other night. One of those guys that knows it all and isn't afraid to tell you about it. This was a NFHS match, he mentioned NCAA mechanics and procedures at least 10 times, probably more. Informed the scorekeeper NOT to hit the horn if they think the incorrect server is serving, wait till the point plays out then hit the horn. Stated there was an NCAA match where the scorekeeper hit the horn incorrectly on match point and the team lost the match on the reserve. And yes we did have this happen during the match. Scolded me about using a card as R1, even though he missed 2 different illegal alignments that I caught having my card, I also knew as soon as the ball was contacted that the incorrect server situation happened. Scolded me about using a card as R2 (which is required in NFHS) saying that I could poke a players eye out when they were coming for the ball with that in my hand, again insert NCAA story about this happening in a match.

I am not one to point out others flaws, I admit I am a better softball official than I am volleyball. But when someone is such a .....well jerk about certain items but doesn't know other simplier rules because they are different from NFHS, or just takes it upon himself to modify items because he feels it's better that way, it's a little upsetting.

So part of that was venting, but my real question is how do you deal with someone like that? I was respectful and did the "really, but I thought NFHS was XXX" approach. But it was an uncomfortable evening and I was wondering if anyone else had any advice of how to deal with / ease the tension in this sort of partner situation.