What Do You Know Now That You Wish You Had Known When You First Started?

[Mark Padgett]

Originally Posted by Nevadaref

That controlling the game is the most important thing in officiating.

Actually, try thinking of it this way:

"Be in control of the game without controlling the game."

Learned that a long time ago and it's served me well.

[26 Year Gap]

I'm very glad that Mark posted about fishnets and not that he learned about the first rule in officiating the hard way.

[Mregor]

Referee the Defense. I heard this from day-1 but it took several years to really understand and do it. Too much fan in me always wanting to watch the ball I guess. Once you really do ref the defense, things will be easier.

Mregor

[tjones1]

I'll echo what's already been said. Get into the books earlier. Also, if you can, read here everyday. I can't tell you how much this place has helped me. There's lot of good information and people here.

Also, make sure you zip your fly before you leave the locker room.

[Jurassic Referee]

Originally Posted by tomegun

I take mine off while walking (not running) off the court. I wrap it around my hand and take a direct route off the court without making direct eye contact. I don't make direct eye contact because people will either say things to you straight up or suck you in by thinking they are about to say good game and then let you have it.

That's exactly what I was taught in my first year of officiating too. I still sub-consciously do it.

Back in the early 60's, I watched Earl Strom and Mendy Rudolph take their belts off and wrap them around their hands(buckle out) before they left the floor.

[grunewar]

Originally Posted by Jurassic Referee

Mendy Rudolph?

Wow, that's going back! Met him once at Sixers vs Knicks game - good ole days! Good guy.