Why We Ref

[Terrapins Fan]

I work with a guy who is about 73 years old or so. The last 2 years he has slowed down, alot.

No one has the heart to tell him, but coaches are complaining at every level. Our association has limited his Varsity games ( we work 3 man Varsity ) so, varsity games are easier for him to work and easier for us to help him out. So , he does a lot more 2 man games with younger officials. That's harder on both of them. I know the board doesn't want him to come back next year. Any way, here's my point.

Why does he continue to referee? He has loads of money. It's not the money. He has been a boss in many jobs. It's not the power ( he never has called a "T" in nearly 40 years. ) He does it for the friendships with other refs. If he wasn't refereeing, he would be sitting at home and dying. He would be lonely, his family is grown. He works part time, so he has that. But he referees all year round. Most years he does more than 100 games. This year about 45 to 50. Everyone loves him, but his time has past.

How would you want it broke to you if you hit that point?

Why do you referee?

I love the friendships with other refs but I love basketball itself. I played in high school, Rec league and coached and owned a team. If I felt I wasn't able to hold my own I would want smeone to tell me. There are other things we can do and stay involved.