A 1st year 1st

[Rich]

Originally Posted by fullor30

Very contradictory.

It's not, actually. It keeps schools from even THINKING about saving $40 from not hiring a second official. And the minimum exists in ALL sports - 2 for baseball and softball, 3 for football (4 varsity), etc.

If an official gets hurt, that's one thing, but no school can only SCHEDULE one official for a FR softball game because if they could, many of them would regularly.

[BillyMac]

Here's what the interpereters in Connecticut came up with. These are only suggestions:

It is quite possible that you will eventually officiate a game by yourself. This document offers officiating guidelines and one-person officiating mechanics you should follow:

Assignment Commissioner
-Contact the Commissioner either before or after the game.
-If you are assigned a game by the Assignment Commissioner, DO NOT accept an offer from a parent, coach, or a non-Bd. official. Work alone.

Coaches and Administrators Conference
-Conduct a pre-game meeting with both coaches and the game administrator.
-Confirm that everyone is in agreement.
-Request coaches cooperation and express advance appreciation for them assisting you in keeping themselves and the game under control.
-Stress and remind them of the importance of good sportsmanship and the example that they can and should set for their players.
-Advise the game administrator that the cooperation of spectators will also be expected.
-Remind game administrator that your fee is a “game and a half” fee.

Pregame Captains Meeting
-Explain that you will appreciate and expect the cooperation from all ten players on the floor.
-Explain that you expect the players to retrieve all loose balls once the whistle is sounded.

Floor Coverage
-Work the sideline, opposite the scorer’s table, moving from free throw line extended to free throw line extended.
-As the ball goes toward the opposite sideline, you will have to move off the sideline toward the center of the floor.
-Avoid getting caught on the end line.

Start/Stop Clock
-You must stop/start clock at all opportunities using the proper mechanic. For example, during a successful free throw, as Trail, you must start the clock.

Out of Bounds
-Request players and coaches to assist you on out of bounds violations.
-If disagreement results, use the alternating possession arrow to make decision.
-After designating the throw-in spot, move to your position (see Floor Coverage) and either bounce or toss the ball to the player for the throw-in.

Time Outs
-Stand at the division line, ¾ away from the scorer’s table with ball on hip toward the teams’ basket which will have control of the ball. After 1st horn, move to area on the playing court where play will resume.

Three Point Shots
-Do not guess. Move to improve your angle or request coaches to assist with the proper call.

Reporting Fouls
-Move to the mid court area to report a foul.
-Keep your distance to enable you to observe all the players.

Free Throw Coverage
-Assemble the players and administer every free throw from the Trail position.
-Observe initial placement of the free thrower’s feet, but then focus attention on the other players along the free throw lane lines.

Presses
-Remain at the free throw line extended in the backcourt, opposite the scorer/timer table and move up the court with the players.

Maintain Control
-Maintain your composure.
-You may need to blow your whistle more so players do not take advantage of the situation.
-Take charge early to help keep the crazy stuff in check.
-Do not argue with the coaches. Keep your cool and remind them that you are working hard for them.
-Do the best you can. It is not your fault that this situation occurred.
-Remember that, if approached properly, people will almost always be willing to assist.
-Remember that you are the best official on the floor, albeit the only one.

Sources: Greater Sudbury Board of Basketball Officials (IAABO Board 106) and Topeka Officials Association (Kansas State High School Activities Association)

[Amesman]

Originally Posted by BillyMac

Here's what the interpereters in Connecticut came up with. These are only suggestions:

-Remind game administrator that your fee is a “game and a half” fee.

Is this common for one-man games (that is, when you wind up covering for another)?

Reasonable to expect it as well even if it's wreck or park district ball (especially since the $$ had been designated for more than one official)?

Would like to know what "leverage" can be expected here, if any. Thanks.

[Rich]

Originally Posted by BillyMac

-Explain that you expect the players to retrieve all loose balls once the whistle is sounded.

How is this different from a normal game?

[BillyMac]

Originally Posted by Amesman

Is this common for one-man games.

It's in our contract with the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference, our state sports governing body.