Why do you officiate?

[Rita C]

Originally Posted by The Canuck

I officiate because I need to be around basketball. I can't not.

I stopped growing in grade 10 when I was 5'10", but still started at forward on the junior team at school. We were a small team and I couldn't dribble so I was doomed to getting hammered in the low post all game, every game by bigger guys. I didn't play senior ball for this very reason, instead turning to officiating - it was a way to be around the game of basketball that didn't hurt quite as much.

One thing struck me about this article though - did you notice that every guy they talked to was a multi-sport official? Whatever happened to specialists? With apologies to any multi-sport officials reading this, I have my reservations about guys like that. There are a few guys who do football and basketball in my area (the two sports in which I am the most involved) and it's clear they're there probably for the money second but certainly the power trip first. Not to say they're bad guys, it's more that maybe their priorities are a bit out of whack.

I need to be around baseball. It's my first love. I played basketball and greatly enjoyed being on the team. (I only played in two games.) So when the basketball referee association advertised for officials, and I needed to keep active during the winter months, it seemed perfect.

I'm only paid for the basketball. I see my function to be there to see the rules are applied fairly and to help keep it fun for the kids. I don't think power or money figure in. I could be delusional of course. Or at the very least, in denial.

Rita

[BillyMac]

I get the best seat in the house to watch some outstanding athletes.

I get to meet a lot of people, fellow officials, coaches, players, site directors, athletic directors, and fans.

I get in a pretty good workout three of four times a week.

I love basketball. I love interscholastic sports.

I find officiating a challange. I'm always trying to improve.

I get paid for this. I wouldn't do it for free, except for the Special Oympics Unified Games and the "Doc" Hurley Scholarship Tournament.