Camp comment got me thinking

[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by Odd Duck

JRutledge...the camp could best be described as a teaching camp. All of the clinicians were D1 officials who work women. The vast majority of campers were there simply to get better at the HS game. There were some that were "practicing" and wanting feedback from those guys before attending a college "try-out" camp. The crew had the option of using NFHS or NCAA women's mechanics...but we were told the entire crew had to match. In all but one of the games I saw, NFHS mechanics were used. A couple of the campers asked for and recieved dispensation to use NCAA mechanics even if the others were using NFHS...which some campers quitely growled at. It didn't bother me at all...I was just there to learn and get better. I really couldn't care less if someone reported differently than me. As long as all the action was being officiated and they communicated to me and my other partner they could do their own thing.

Understand that D1 officials and most college officials think on a higher level than the average HS official (sorry but it is true). What he was telling you was a way to survive in the game rather than be 100% correct based on rules and consistency which I feel we use as a crutch as HS officials. Consistency is wonderful but the problem is that all plays are not exact same and all situations are not the exact same. So what this clinician told you is not necessarily wrong and not necessarily right. It is what it is. That was his opinion on the play based on his personal experience and understanding of the game he was watching. The best thing you can do is think about the play, what the clinician told you and file it away for future reference and understanding. Even if you were there to learn and only learn, you need to understand that what you are told is to help you get better so your calls will be accepted. I would not take the comments any more than that.

Peace