I did it! I did it!

[rainmaker]

I did two AAAA boys' JV games tonight.....

ALONE!! And I really did a pretty darn good job. I don't know what happened to the partner, but I called the assignor as soon as I got home, so's he'd know. But really, it went pretty well. I was very assertive, and kept control of each game from beginning to end, but I never lost my cool. Both games were close, with quite a bit of contact near the end. I held tight to the reins, and called what needed to be called. The first game had one parent who thought he knew everything, and was kind of getting the players riled up a little, but after one particularly unpopular call (a very easy intentional foul), the coach of this parent's team said very loudly, "No Mike that was a good call. What makes you think you can shove him like that?" That shut the dad up. I was pleased as punch, since I had a lot of problems with this same coach, in this same gym last year. He never complained once tonight, and afterward told me I'd done a great job. Second game was more difficult, with more contact, and the kids more emotional, but I did what needed to be done.

I relied more on advantage/disadvantage that I would have otherwise, especially on plays under the basket when I was up top, which was most of the time. I didn't move as much as I could have, and I think I missed a couple pretty hard illegal screens, that I might have caught. And there was one travel call which seemed like a no-brainer, but thinking back, I probably should have stepped down one or two more in order to call it. I think it was the right call, but it would have given me more credibility.

But my little re-play tape in my head is lookin' pretty good about now. Rockyroad was talking to me last weekend about the right amount of cocky attitude. I'm there, Rocky, and I'm locking in, hoping it will last. I want to carry this confidence and strength into camp with me this coming weekend. And I sure like this feeling! It beats "AAAUUUGGGHHH!!..." all hollow!

[Mark Padgett]

Juulie - since this was boys, I know it was not the same summer league we are both doing. I'm curious as to where this was and I'm assuming this was for Spitz. BTW - who was the partner who didn't show? You can email me if you want.

Did you use all the tips that have been on this board, such as working FT line to FT line, alternating sides occasionally, working a "close trail" on free throws and throwing a whistle at any fan who gives you crap?

OK, apparently you didn't do the last one.

Hope to see you soon.

[rainmaker]

Yes, I worked FT line to FT line, although a couple of times in the second game, I administered a throw-in from the baseline, and then slid up. There was a lot of banging in the low post, and I wanted to catch it, with a good look, if necessary. As soon as the ball went up top, swung around to a trail position. I mostly worked from trail to center, although a few times I stepped up into the center circle.

When I've worked alone before, I alternated sides more than I did this time. Last night, I found that the ball was tending to stay on my side, and that I consistently got better looks opposite the table. Which was fine with me!!

[fletch_irwin_m]

At last someone else has had to fly solo!!
I am glad I am not the only one with that experience this year! I was like you, tried to have tight riens early and often. Any player gave me lip got whacked. After about the first 5 min. everyone got into a flow and was pretty easy there. I only had one parent give me grief. Kept telling me I missed one. I asked the coach to have the guy yell out when I called one he missed! Coach laughed and told the parent at half time.
Sounds like you did a great job.