"Part of the game"

[Todd VandenAkker]

I hear what you're saying about it being a rec league, so wanting to have more leniency. I generally go with the flow for a while, throwing in an occasional "nothing there" or "didn't get there in time" or the like, but after a while I draw the line and tell them "no more comments to the officials." After that, any vociferous complaint or comment would be penalized. If you work the same guys week after week, they will learn what you accept and don't accept and play accordingly. Some guys simply can't keep their mouths shut and will get their "T's," then generally just play after that and not risk being booted. Staying calm and matter-of-fact in these types of leagues is crucial. If you start talking to the players with an "attitude," it will only get uglier.