You got to know the rules...

[Mark Padgett]

Originally Posted by BillyMac

Amen.

Officials do not make calls that decide the outcome of a game. Players commit fouls and violations; officials view those infractions, judge the action, and then apply the rules of the game to what they had viewed. The rules then determine the penalty. Officials are on the court to be the only unbiased arbiters of the game. Officials are not concerned with who wins or loses, but only fairness and safety. Everyone else in that gym cares about winning, and therefore cannot look at the game objectively.

BillyMac, you've given me a great idea for our local kids rec league. Next season, before each game, I'm going to have the two officials stand in front of the benches and address the teams and the spectators by announcing, "Everyone who cares which team wins this game raise your hand. Thanks. Please note that my partner and I were the only two people in the gym who didn't raise a hand. Remember that while the game is being played. Thank you."

Actually, I may really do that - I'm not kidding.