What would you do?

[JoeT]

As a young ref myself (2nd year), I sympathize with Joe. It seems veteran officials fall into one of two groups in regard to their attitudes about working with newer refs. Some guys pass off this attitude that they shouldn't have to work with you and you're a burden (which they determine - somehow - before you've made a call). Other guys are really cool about it and try hard to be helpful and communicative.

Unfortunately, I have found a fair number from that first group. The problem is, I'm pretty sure that being confrontational with them (whether you are right or wrong) will not help the game go more smoothly. If the goal is to conduct a consistently and professionally-officiated game, I would probably not confront a guy who I know will react badly. For me, sometimes it's hard not being confrotational, but I try to put the integrity of that night's game before my pride.

I keep hearing and reading about how we need to build our ranks by encouraging and teaching younger officials. I have been a little put out, however, that some veterans (certainly not all) send a very clear message that they don't want us around.

I'm interested to hear from you vets about how you feel about newer officials.

Joe