Initiating conversation with coach

[imagomer]

He was both chronologically and avocationally young. I could tell by his mechanics and manner that he was more inexpeienced than the other two officials, both of whom I have known for years. That he was paired with the two more experienced guys was another tipoff that he was "still coming along." The fact that we are a small school conference (with less athletic, less intense, and yes even less skillful players and coaches) makes our league a good place for the newer officials to get their feet wet. I believe this was the case with this official.

[imagomer]

And to answer your Q: I would say he was 25ish

[Junker]

I had the bad habit of initiating conversations a few years ago. Nothing good comes of it. Now, about the only time I talk to a coach is if they ask me a direct question. Great post from a coach's perspective by the way.

[tjones1]

Coach,

Kudos for allowing the younger guy to come work for you. We've gotta start somewhere if we want this game to continue.

[Kevzebra]

Easy way to think about talking to coaches:

1) Answer questions
2) Ignore statements
3) Punish idiotic people!

Follow those steps and depending on your verbal communication skills, you most likely will have few troubles!

[SWMOzebra]

Thanks for the reminder, Coach! It's sound advice.

As a newer official (though not even close to "25-ish"), I've been paired with more experienced partners every time I step on the court. This is one thing that's constantly emphasized to me in pre-game, don't try to explain without the coach asking first.