Working By Yourself

[tomegun]

Originally Posted by Damian

The best view is from the top of the key. You can move from one side to the other depending on ball movement. Then, when the ball changes hands, just back up to the sideline, let the players pass, then trail back to the top of the key on the other side.

We cover this in camps and it seems to be the standard in our area.

The guy in post #6 said something similar. The view from the top of the key is superior to the view from the free throw line extended when you only have one set of eyes.

[Ref Daddy]

Originally Posted by tomegun

The guy in post #6 said something similar. The view from the top of the key is superior to the view from the free throw line extended when you only have one set of eyes.

From "top of Key" you win on OOB Line visability, loose on seeing between players.

For me the "dodging players" requirement is a real disadvantage.

That said I think the key in "1 man" is getting cooperation and support from anywhere - table, players, coach's, etc.

[grunewar]

I also go over the issue with the coaches before the game and tell them things such as - I won't be able to watch the ball and the 3 second violations, and I will be out of position to make side-line OB calls, I'll do my best to run the floor, etc. Most coaches are understanding and just glad they have ONE ref and don't have to call it themselves or get that "know it all" fan to do it! Although, THAT would be hilarious!!

[tomegun]

Originally Posted by Ref Daddy

From "top of Key" you win on OOB Line visability, loose on seeing between players.

For me the "dodging players" requirement is a real disadvantage.

That said I think the key in "1 man" is getting cooperation and support from anywhere - table, players, coach's, etc.

Nope, you don't loose on seeing between players unless you are talking about a specific play in a specific area. Tell me another location besides close to the center of the court above the key where you can see as much and loose less than freezing and letting players go by you on a quick steal.

[rbruno]

I also call both coaches together and tell them that I can't see everything by myself, so especially 3 seconds off the ball won't get called. That's why there are two or three referees. If its a youth game I even tell them that I might ask for help from the players on OOB calls away from me.....heck, its not the NBA championship.
I like to go foul line to foul line on the table side, figure that the benches can't see the far sideline either. I've tried running the court end line to endline and you are never in postion and just get infinetly more tired getting yourself out of postion. When the ball goes weak side very quickly I will move to the center of the court for a better look.
The whole single official thing is a no win situation, cause they still can't help complaining and there is more to complain about.