The 3 versus 2 fallacies, a mini-rant

[luvernebbref]

I've basically given you the pay scale in my state, but if really want more detail from other areas, then start a thread about game fees. It has been done in the past on this forum.[/QUOTE]

Thanks, I will start a new thread, so if others will reply on the thread "Game Fees" I would appreciate it.

[WhistlesAndStripes]

Selling the 3 man is a tough job, but really, something that the OFFICIALS need to take the lead in doing. We worked 3 man games for 2 man money for a couple of years while we got the hang of it. This year, when we presented the new contract reflecting appropriate rates for 3 officials, it was sticker shock for the schools. Their first response was, "We can't afford 3 man -- we'll take the 2 man price and have 2 officials for our games." Our association stood up and said that wasn't an option. There was a little negotiating that occurred, but we came out way ahead of what we were getting last year.

[mplagrow]

Originally Posted by Whistles & Stripes

Selling the 3 man is a tough job, but really, something that the OFFICIALS need to take the lead in doing. We worked 3 man games for 2 man money for a couple of years while we got the hang of it. This year, when we presented the new contract reflecting appropriate rates for 3 officials, it was sticker shock for the schools. Their first response was, "We can't afford 3 man -- we'll take the 2 man price and have 2 officials for our games." Our association stood up and said that wasn't an option. There was a little negotiating that occurred, but we came out way ahead of what we were getting last year.

Great idea--use that association power and go on strike! They think WE suck, wait until they see the scabs!

[WhistlesAndStripes]

Originally Posted by imaref

unless you get school districts to cut three checks dividing the 2-person total three ways to issue three checks....two of the three officials gets screwed having to report full rate for each game even though they split the total amount three ways!

Not entirely true. While the officials to whom the checks are issued will most likely receive a 1099 from the school district, proper documentation will allow these same officials to deduct the amount paid to the third guy.

[Rich]

Originally Posted by Whistles & Stripes

Not entirely true. While the officials to whom the checks are issued will most likely receive a 1099 from the school district, proper documentation will allow these same officials to deduct the amount paid to the third guy.

1099s should only come after $600 in earnings. I've only received a few since moving here 5 years ago -- all from the University system cause I work their college conference in baseball and hit the $600 threshold with them. None from high schools since I don't letter at any one particular school.

[WhistlesAndStripes]

Originally Posted by Rich Fronheiser

1099s should only come after $600 in earnings. I've only received a few since moving here 5 years ago -- all from the University system cause I work their college conference in baseball and hit the $600 threshold with them. None from high schools since I don't letter at any one particular school.

I realize the $600 thing. I'm just pointing out that someone who receives a full game fee and pays part of it to another official isn't required to pay the taxes on the part they paid someone else.

[Rich]

Originally Posted by imaref

Hey....I'm gonna pick up the Rich Fronheiser "rant" on a different thread if anyone wants to contribute.....but, before that.....

"What's the response on the fact that if a "3-Crew" is working "3 for 2" fee structure....and as independent contractors in Wisconsin....unless you get school districts to cut three checks dividing the 2-person total three ways to issue three checks....two of the three officials gets screwed having to report full rate for each game even though they split the total amount three ways!

Also.....I am aware of an assignor who places emphasis on his three-crew assignments placing some priority to "officials who attend his camp." How many leagues/commissioners use "Pay-to-Play" philosophy/criteria to assign their officials? Is this right at the high school level?

end of rant 2.

That's part of the problem here -- we don't have centrally assigned games through an officials' association and many, many officials would be happy to work 2 for a few extra bucks. Many of the old-timers don't want to be bothered learning the system, too.

And don't get me started on assignors and pay-for-play at the high school level. I'd have to create another identity to rant and rave about that nonsense. I work 3 sports year-round and I'm not giving up a weekend of good baseball to work a camp to get 4-5 high school games 2 years from now.

And imaref, reporting is easy -- work all your games in the same 3-person crew and just have a different official work for free each game. My regular crew has already done 6 3-person games together and I've not gotten paid, in essence, twice.

Actually, it's not a big deal, really, since we don't get 1099s or W-2s -- just claim how much you actually worked for and if you have to pay someone out of your check, deduct it.

[Mregor]

Originally Posted by imaref

Also.....I am aware of an assignor who places emphasis on his three-crew assignments placing some priority to "officials who attend his camp." How many leagues/commissioners use "Pay-to-Play" philosophy/criteria to assign their officials? Is this right at the high school level?

You must be referring to Ralph S. I've heard that's his modus operandi. I moved from the area 2 years ago but still keep in touch with friends, and from what I've heard, he probably won't be retained by the conference once their commitment is up. He's not fielding top crews.

Mregor