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It's really NOT a complicated arrangement, For whatever PRIMARY reason a Game Official is on the sideline, he also has an obligation (as an adult) to ignore the emotions of the situation and maintain the DESIGNED safety (rules & procedures) for EVERYONE on that sideline.
Coaches (including Head coaches) have a completely different function, but are also adults, and although subject to a higher level of emotional involvement are EXPECTED & REQUIRED to adhere to established guidelines. Game situations often dictate unanticipated emotional responses that necessitate REMINDERS (hopefully gentle) to regain appropriate composure, when it may have been temporarily misplaced.
There is NO reasonable expectation that such reminders be continual, and should always be constructive and civil. However, as suggestions BETWEEN ADULTS they are EXPECTED to be taken positively and quickly and quietly followed. There is NO LEGITIMATE REASON for discussion, debate or argument (at that moment). Should complaint EVER be necessary, it should be registered AFTER the contest AWAY from the field of play, through appropriate, designated channels.
Recipients, of gentle, constructive and civil reminders are not required to agree with them, but they ARE REQUIRED TO COMPLY, regardless of whether they agree.
The objective of sideline safety rules is not flags and penalties, it is SIDELINE SAFETY (protecting players, officials & coaches), which is BEST maintained with occasional (constructive and civil) reminders that generate appropriate AND IMMEDIATE compliance, which AVOIDS the necessity of flags and penalties.
In short, gentlemen, when you're reminded to step back, SHUT UP and step back (and allow the "beat" to go on). Otherwise, you embarrass yourselves, and more importantly, the game we are all PRIVILEGED to participate in.
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