Large arena tips?

[grunewar]

Originally Posted by Danvrapp

Any thing to look out for or be aware of?

I worked a game at the Verizon Center in DC a few yrs back. 18K seat arena w/ about 400 in attendance for our game prior to an NBA event......

My experience was similar to others.

- Took me a while to adjust to the long scorers table.
- The lights were brighter and the court seemed warmer.
- Floor appeared much more cushioned and easier on my feet.
- Baskets/rims/backboard seemed to have more give and appeared quieter.
- The overhead scoreboard took getting used to as when you go to peek up at it, you're underneath it and can see very little. I had to find the clock either above the basket or along the overhangs of the arena.
- Most importantly for me though, my Fox 40 seemed inadequate. It just seemed to get swallowed up by the sheer size of the venue. I wish I had had a better whistle.
- Much nicer locker rooms and showers!

After our game the 76ers and Wizzards were warming up. The shortest player that walked by me, was nearly as tall as the tallest player I'd ever officiated.

Have fun and enjoy.