Seems to me that those individuals should not be allowed to be role models and figures of authority. Maybe there needs to be a better system of screening officials.

I know this is off topic but I think we try to throw around the role model thing too much in America. When I'm on the court I'm an official there to do a job. Professionalism is a must but being a role model isn't in my mind. We have to remember we do not have many friends in any gym we work.

I know this is off topic but I think we try to throw around the role model thing too much in America. When I'm on the court I'm an official there to do a job. Professionalism is a must but being a role model isn't in my mind. We have to remember we do not have many friends in any gym we work. [/QUOTE]

Who is this, Charles Barkley??? By officiating, we are leaders and serving the community...whether they like it or not! LOL! That makes us role models by most people's definition. By being professional & upholding the integrity of the game & ourselves, I believe we are good examples of what a role model should be.

Who is this, Charles Barkley??? By officiating, we are leaders and serving the community...whether they like it or not! LOL! That makes us role models by most people's definition. By being professional & upholding the integrity of the game & ourselves, I believe we are good examples of what a role model should be. [/QUOTE]I agree completely with Indy. Officials have always been held to a higher degree of conduct than the other participants--coaches and players(and don't even mention the fans). As officials, we may be good, average or even bad, but our integrity should never be in question.

When we're out on the court, we're representing <b>all</b> officials.