evolving with the game

[Dan_ref]

This is a great discussion. One of the great refs I have
the pleasure to know is very much a "loosy goosy"
type of guy. At his camps he'll proudly tell you not
to ask him about rules or mechanics because he don't
know sh1t about either. Another great ref I know is a
rules & mechanics guru (I'm certain Mark D knows him well).
He'll give you hell for even the slightest f*ck up (his
words, not mine) and his camps are great for learning a
system. Having said all that I would have to say that
mechanics & rules knowledge are what is required today.
These days "seat of the pants" refereeing is not the easiest
way to break in, but rules & mechanics are not what will
keep you moving up once you are in.