If we were on the street talking about another official I would agree with the comments about officials. However, I think we can talk a little more openly on this board. What kind of world would we live in if we accepted what those above us do as always being correct? Thinking about that should give us all at least one example of this happening; not neccessarily in basketball. Also, I don't live in a world where people always get what they deserve and deserve what they get. Life just isn't that way so we shouldn't put officiating in a bubble.

I don't doubt there being an official on this board that is worthy of being a D1 official but hasn't made it. In fact I know there is.
I could name at least one obvious official that doesn't deserve, based on ability, to be where he is and it isn't Hightower, Hall or Thornley.

I know there are some preachers and politicians (presidents) that wish more people wouldn't question what they do. :D

[Edited by tomegun on Mar 16th, 2006 at 05:11 AM]

In other words, we don't have to be "referee fanboys" all the time.

Part of the problem the fans have is that we ALWAYS seem to defend the officials, regardless of what they do. Let's defend the effort, sure, but when they make mistakes we shouldn't be afraid to talk about them.

Then name them already.

I think the issue is not whether you can or cannot talk about other officials. The point is it sounds very unprofessional to constantly rip guys on levels that you or I will probably never reach. These guys are scrutinized in ways most of us will never ever understand unless we get to that point. Also to say that you do not want to be there does not wash either. Remember the very same thing you guys are saying about these officials are the same thing I am sure people are saying about you that cannot work the level you currently work. The only differences are you guys are doing it on a public forum and the officials in your area are doing it behind your back while in the stands. Remember what goes around comes around. ;)

Peace

Addressing only this specific statement from BBR

I was working a camp last year and in one particular game I was being observered by an SEC (and I think NBDL also) referee. High level HS all-star players (Buck Williams was coaching one team) with big, talented post players. As the Lead I called a travel in the post. At halftime the observer advised me that as the Lead I should probably lay off that call and concentrate on the match-up. He said if a travel occurs that needs to be called that the Trail should be able to help.

Just one observer's opinion, but it is advice i've kept in my head.

Guess Who's Working Seton Hall and Wichita St?
 

I guess the NCAA couldn't wait to get him out there. He's the referee on the 7-10 game between SH and WSU.

Yeah... He is so horrible I just don't understand how he gets these games. I mean, doesn't everyone else recognize what I do - that he is not very good?!? I can't believe that the coaches, conferences, and NCAA all cannot see what is clear to me - that he is horrendous!!!

/extreme sarcasm

Who is the he? Just for the record, I think Hightower is good. I don't actually think Thornley or Hall are bad either; I just think they do some things that take them out of the best position.

Re: Guess Who's Working Seton Hall and Wichita St?
 

I guess that means one of my mentors is working with him. That is pretty darn cool. To bad right now I cannot see the game.

Peace

Rut -- did you try the NCAA on demand? I know some people that are watching on their computer at work that way!

I am trying right now.
 

I am in the waiting list. How in the hell do you get on the VIP list?

Peace

Ahh... not sure -- I think that you had to register early.

I work from home, so I have the TV on... Sorry -- won't rub it in! :)

I work from home as well. I am watching TV right now. The Hall/Wichita St. game is not on. They are showing UW-Milwaukee/Oklahoma right now.

Peace

Oops! He...is Ed Hightower
 

Sorry. My bad. Since the thread was originally about Ed Hightower, I assumed everyone would make the connection. Well, you know what they say when you assume...

That's nice.

You gonna "name at least one obvious official that doesn't deserve, based on ability, to be where he is"?

Or you gonna just hope we forget about it?

[Edited by Dan_ref on Mar 16th, 2006 at 07:39 PM]