I laughed when I heard it....Like a patch is gonna make me call it differently? :p From a "credibility" standpoint...OK, I can maybe see it...but if you aren't gonna take the time to investigate how long I've been at it, a patch aint gonna make much difference!

I've worked in more states with patches than not. And when I'd move to another state it would be time for a new wardrobe.

But they give ANYONE a state patch in places where I live. You sends your money, you gets your patches. Worthless.

Becoming A Patched Man ...
 

Is getting a patch anything like becoming a "Made Man"?

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedi...oodfellas2.jpg

It is not an issue of impressing anyone, it is a requirement. And when you do not follow requirements, your license might be in jeopardy if it is reported. And I can think of only a handful of times where someone working an IHSA game has not had a patch on. And I have worked in a pretty wide area. And even the “college officials” adhere to the requirement. Maybe I do not always see the need to follow some other things from time to time (like wearing a CCA jacket to a game for example), but the patch is usually a very common thing you see.

Peace

Attending a meeting and going to a camp every three years does not prove that you are a good official. Many good officials go to several in one year and not just the basic requirements.

And this proves why having one means little or nothing in the bigger picture. It still takes years for an official to be competent. It still takes extensive training and understanding of the game. It still takes being able to keep up with the players by being in shape. All those things are not things you get by putting a patch on your shirt.

Peace

Wearing a CCA jacket to a high school game will always be interpreted (by me and my usual partners) as trying to "big-time." And it's a big no-no in Wisconsin, as is the side-panel shirt.

I have seen lower level officials wear a CCA Jacket. And I have seen officials that do not work any college ball wear CCA Jackets. I do not see it quite that way, but that is because these jackets are available to anyone that wants them no matter what you have done.

Peace

When I first got my patch, after calling locally for 15 years or so without one, I pointed it out to a coach. "You know what this means, don't you?" "No, what does it mean?" "It means that anybody can get one of these.":D

A "Must Wear" Patch ...
 

I put on this patch before every game, whether I need it, or not:

http://www.gf-lifestyles.com/images/maxid_box.jpg

I don't know. I don't wanna know.

This must be how BillyMac "gets up" for the BIG games! ;)

Pennsylvania requires a keystone-shaped "PIAA Official" patch on the left sleeve. The american flag patch on the right sleeve is optional, but they tell us that everyone on the crew should look alike. Just about everyone wears the flag, but we all bring two shirts ... one with a flag, one without.

The blue area of the flag is on the left.

Then Pennsylvania is wearing it incorrectly. The blue should always be toward the front of the uniform when worn on a sleeve.