Communication Skills to Coaches & Players.

[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by icallfouls

Alright, upon further reflection.

I think that we all agree that communication is a very integral part of officiating. We all must find what works for us and recognize that not every situation is the same. I have been involved in games where I have been asked by a player about a particular call and a coach has said "don't talk to the referees," or "don't talk to my players." Some coaches just don't want us to make comments to them because they don't want the added distraction, they prefer to just make their comments that aren't really directed at the officials. As officials we need to be aware of things like this.

A coach cannot dictate if and when you talk to his/her players. The coach might not like it, but if I am talking to players there is a reason. I also want to cover my behind when I make a call that I have likely warned a player or made him/her aware that their actions might result in a foul or violation. I have had coaches not want the officials to talk to their players, but I still have a job to do.

Peace