Popped a coach for clapping at me

[LRZ]

In PA, there is a mandatory pre-game with head coaches and captains, at which we are required to read the sportsmanship statement verbatim. I do so, trying to give it meaning by my tone of voice--many refs recite it mechanically, in a monotone--then ask if there are any questions; there never are--then "good luck, have a great game and have fun."

I don't fool myself that the code is effective in controlling behavior--likewise, for example, the code in Legion baseball--but it is required, so I make the best of it. On occasion, I've dealt with a hectoring coach by repeating the part about demeaning officials will not be tolerated, like a warning.