What is important to you as an Official

[IREFU2]

I have been asked to speak at a local University, to a group of students taking an Officiating Class and I am just trying to get some ideas from this group of experiece officials. The question is:

"what is important to you as an Offiicial?"

"What are three words that come to mind as an official?"

Please provide me your input. One word that comes to mind for me is Integrity...

Thanks in advance.

[Welpe]

Along with integrity, I would add stewardship.

We should be stewards of the rules for the good of the game.

Money, fame and respect are other good choices.

[Jurassic Referee]

Originally Posted by IREFU2

"What are three words that come to mind as an official?"

Hustle.....be fair!

[SWMOzebra]

Integrity, impartiality, and consistency.

[Coltdoggs]

unbiased, calm demeanor, composure

[socalreff]

Courage, Common sense, Communication, Conviction

Another C - Consistency

[26 Year Gap]

Originally Posted by socalreff

Courage, Common sense, Communication, Conviction

Another C - Consistency

As opposed to indictment?

[IREFU2]

Originally Posted by socalreff

Courage, Common sense, Communication, Conviction

Another C - Consistency

This is good as well.

[SmokeEater]

Originally Posted by SWMOzebra

Intergrity, impartiality, and consistency.

This nails it for me as well. Officials in any sport should adhere to these 3 fundamental qualities.

[IREFU2]

Originally Posted by SWMOzebra

Integrity, impartiality, and consistency.

I like that.........thanks.

[TheOracle]

Judgment, toughness, empathy.

[Mark Padgett]

Originally Posted by TheOracle

Judgment, toughness, empathy.

Not a criticism - just want to point out the sometimes toughness and empathy can be at odds with each other. Finding the "right" balance can be a real challenge.

[TonyT]

1- Be Consistent 2- Respect the game 3- Be in position to make the call

[tomegun]

I would say right off the top that if an official doesn't love this game, don't officiate! To truly love this game should make an official, player or coach realize that there is no perfect game, but doing all you can to strive for the perfect game is always a goal. There are many more than three words that can be used to describe how I feel about officiating and this game.

[JS 20]

Even if you do it as a hobby and/or don't need the money, it's important to remember that it is a JOB. You're taking money in exchange for the service you provide. That being said, be professional, be courteous and WORK HARD TO GET BETTER. You don't go to work every day and go through the motions, you go there to work hard, try to improve your skills and advance your position. The same rules should apply here.

In addition to that, always be slow to speak and quick to listen with coaches and players.