T'd my first

[Rita C]

I've been an umpire for 5 years. I'm used to ejections. I like the T because it is not as drastic as the ejection. A T can be used earlier to keep the game under control. I think this one accomplished just that. The coach knew right away that I wasn't going to tolerate his propensity for wanting the last word. It made the game better for everyone.

I don't want it to be easy. It's a game management tool and this is the first time I've felt the need to use it. Most of the coaches so far have done nothing more than just the expected whine about calls they don't like.

This guy last night would wait for me to pass and say something as soon as I was in earshot. It was a childish demand to have the game called like he thought it should be called. That I couldn't tolerate. It's enough that I have the words of my fellow officials in my mind as I work.

Rita