Did you even read the post? I quoted it above for ease of use, but he clearly does not say he uses anything you could call a crutch.

It looks to me like you have a total of zero rebels. ;)

I can think of a few devices you use.

When In Rome ...
 

Just my opinion that, obviously, won't work for everyone on this Forum.

I believe that it's just as easy for me to "remember" to switch the whistle in my pocket, as it is to remember who had the last arrow. In fact, after doing the whistle pocket switch since they introduced the arrow (we teach all our rookie officials this procedure), it has actually become second nature (automatic) to me to make the switch. I really don't have to think about it. Plus, we have three different ways to figure out a questionable arrow: the table (arrow, scorebooks), our pocket whistles, and our memories of the most recent alternating possession.

When working Catholic middle school girls junior varsity (fifth, sixth grade)games, there is no way that I'm going to remember all the arrow switches without the "crutch" of the pocket whistle, plus this league doesn't require an arrow at the table, not even a switching pencil point.

Then, again, I'm sure that this won't work, or may be a waste of time, for many Forum members, especially those with really good memories, and those that work with really good table crews.

Vive la difference (pardon my French).

Like I said earlier, for me, it makes more sense to expend the mental energy learning to look at the arrow after each throw in than to learn to dig in my pockets after each throw in.

Note: none of this applies to wreck games and such that have no arrow at the table.

I am still getting used to it, but it works well for me. Rec ball on Sunday didn't have an arrow and the JV game I did earlier this week had an awful table. It's nice to be able to just pat my pocket and not have to second guess myself. Obviously in a varsity contest, it's not necessary but I am getting the feeling that some might think less of me for using something that gives me peace of mind as a still growing official. Like I've said before, I'm here to learn and I appreciate the input, both condescending and constructive.

I should note that while I think it's something officials should work to move past, I don't think of this as a major issue; particularly in subvarsity games where a table can be hit or miss.