What's the difference?

[Mark Padgett]

A few years ago at a camp, I was told there was a difference between a personal remark made by a coach, and a "non-personal" remark. The example that was given was "You're terrible" vs. "That was a terrible call." The instructor said that personal remarks almost always deserve a T but that non-personal remarks usually don't, unless there are multiple remarks. It was never explained as to why one was more insulting than the other.

I've really never felt there is a difference. Frankly, if a coach says your call is terrible, isn't that the same as saying you're terrible? After all, you are the one making the call. If it isn't, then can't a smart coach (oh, wait - that's an oxymoron) use that tactic to avoid or prolong getting a T?

If anyone can lend some insight into this distinction, which I have heard espoused many times by different refs, I would love to hear it.

Thanks.