Crew Consistency

[Nevadaref]

NO. Talk like an official, not a moron.

[Adam]

Originally Posted by referee99

Most if not all partners that I have use "key", "baseline", "shots", etc.
This is a common language amongst players, fans, coaches and officials.
I understand that.

My question is should I consider changing my language to match partners in an effort to ensure crew consistency?

Originally Posted by Nevadaref

NO. Talk like an official, not a moron.

Okay, I understand the sentiment here, especially with things like "reach" and "over the back," but I'm not sure how the terms noted above indicate a "moron." How are they detrimental terms?

[JugglingReferee]

Originally Posted by Snaqwells

Okay, I understand the sentiment here, especially with things like "reach" and "over the back," but I'm not sure how the terms noted above indicate a "moron." How are they detrimental terms?

I'm with you - I have no problem with "key", "baseline", "shots".

[Adam]

Originally Posted by JugglingReferee

I'm with you - I have no problem with "key", "baseline", "shots".

I don't use "key" and "baseline," I just point and say, "white ball right there." I do, however, use "shots" when referring to free throws.

"Two shots, partner."

When administering, I'll say "Two shots," to the players.

Or, conversely, "One shot, let it hit."

[JRutledge]

If you can use the rulebook language, but we do have jargon that is acceptable and understood in our game. I would not worry about using that jargon as long as it is accurate and easily understood. I do not know anyone that would get upset (not in real life) if you said "Key" or "Baseline." If this is what you are really worried about or an assignor is worried about this, then you or they have too much to worry about. These terms are not the same as saying "over the back" or "moving screen" while calling fouls. This is a completely different set of circumstances if you ask me.

Peace

[dbking]

I learned at a recent camp from a very veteran official..

"White, keep moving"

It is a game management tool. Coach can not say you are favoring one team or to call the violation. It works just the same and causes no controversy.

Originally Posted by dbking

I learned at a recent camp from a very veteran official..

"White, keep moving"

It is a game management tool. Coach can not say you are favoring one team or to call the violation. It works just the same and causes no controversy.

Strange, I too learned at a recent camp from a very veteran official...

Use no colors or numbers.

Reasoning:
On one end you (L) say "white keep moving" or "55 out the lane" & on the other end your partner (L) hits them with a 3 second violation. Now who's coaching who? I'm sure the coach is wondering why the crew helped on one end but not the other. Especially if this scenario happens in the first half, know what I mean?

[Nevadaref]

Originally Posted by JugglingReferee

I'm with you - I have no problem with "key", "baseline", "shots".

How about "on the floor?"

[Adam]

Originally Posted by Nevadaref

How about "on the floor?"

I never use this one, but I hear "veteran" officials use it occasionally.

[Rich]

Originally Posted by Nevadaref

How about "on the floor?"

I don't get all worked up about it, actually. Most officials I work with that use it actually call things the right way, so it means nothing to me.

[LDUB]

Originally Posted by RichMSN

I don't get all worked up about it, actually. Most officials I work with that use it actually call things the right way, so it means nothing to me.

It creates problems in the next game when an official calls a foul while the shooter is on the ground but has started the throwing motion. This is no different than calling over the back instead of a push.

In the end the call may be right either way but it communicates the wrong information.

[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by LDUB

It creates problems in the next game when an official calls a foul while the shooter is on the ground but has started the throwing motion. This is no different than calling over the back instead of a push.

In the end the call may be right either way but it communicates the wrong information.

Do you really think coaches are paying that close attention? Do you think coaches do not already buy into the myth? They did not come up with the idea that the shooting motion "on the floor" came directly from an official. You cannot constantly worry about what others do and say. If you do, you will always be fighting that battle. Do not get conned by coaches because they told you other officials do the same. Not everyone is at your knowledge or experience level. You cannot expect 100% uniformity in anything, unless you are the military or something.

Peace

[Rich]

Originally Posted by LDUB

It creates problems in the next game when an official calls a foul while the shooter is on the ground but has started the throwing motion. This is no different than calling over the back instead of a push.

In the end the call may be right either way but it communicates the wrong information.

Creates problems? Please.

Haven't had a problem. Matter of fact, I'm the guy who makes sure that if a motion has started, even just a millisecond earlier, that we're shooting. I may get a question, sure, but it's not cause some random guy says "on the floor."

I honestly think that those who are pedantic about these things either invent these "problems" or embellish them to enhance their position that these "rogue" phrases and mechanics are "dangerous."

Feh. I'm way more concerned about those with perfect mechanics who don't understand what is or isn't a foul (or a travel, etc.).

[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by RichMSN

I don't get all worked up about it, actually. Most officials I work with that use it actually call things the right way, so it means nothing to me.

And most officials do not get worked up over the language. Of course it is wrong to use, but as you said it really does not mean that much to people who are focused on their job.

Peace

[JugglingReferee]

Originally Posted by Nevadaref

How about "on the floor?"

I do not use that one.