Don't criticize officials in my town, buddy.
 

I was trying to find something on the net and I came across an archive of letters to the editor for our local paper here in Portland, "The Oregonian". I know that years ago, I used to write letters to them occasionally and I found one I had written regarding some criticism of sports officials. Just thought you might like to read it.

Letters: Officiating rec games, Irrigon softball | OregonLive.com

Mark:

I would have loved to have read the letter that Joe Decker wrote.

MTD, Sr.

Well Put Mark Padgett ...
 

"There are only two people in the entire gym who don't care who wins the game -- themselves and their officiating partner."

This (above) should be Mark Padgett's First Rule Of Officiating, not that other First Rule Of Officiating.

Here it is:

Letter: Incompetence in sports officiating is rampant | OregonLive.com

The OTHER First Rule Of Officiating: "Make sure you get paid before the game in small used untraceable bills!" :p

MTD, Sr.

Be sure to write this down
 

OK - for all you newbies, the real first rule of officiating is:

TUCK YOUR WHISTLE IN YOUR JERSEY BEFORE YOU TAKE A LEAK.

This applies to both male and female officials.

And for those that don't use a lanyard, WASH YOUR HANDS. :D

So...does Joe Decker work for your association now? ;)

DOH!! You mean the OTHER First Rule of Basketball! Not to be confused with that OHTER First Rule of Basketball Officiating: "Make sure your zipper is pulled up before you leave the dressing room."

MTD, Sr.