This is a good question, and it's a regional thing. I use a roller-style carry-on suitcase, and most of the officials here do the same. In my last association, duffel bags were the norm (possibly because a roller-suitcase doesn't work well in mountain snow, or possibly because they were cheapskates and no one cared. They also wore belted pants because they were cheaper and you could buy them locally.)

Welcome!

There have been several... let's say debates... on duffel bags vs. rolling bags (along with shoes, whistles, brands of shirts, etc). I was just trying to lighten up the mood, bringing up a couple of things that have been tossed around on here.

Thanks. I want to "make a good impession on my first day."

Exactly!!!!!!

Peace

As a parent of a 10 yr old that plays (we don't call it a traveling league but we do play a handful of local tournaments) and obviously an official also, I realize what type of people we're getting to officiate his games. Quite frankly, I am more than gracious to them as I know they'd rather be doing something else. I always make it a point to say thanks to them if our paths cross after the games. I even draw ire from the Mrs. when I call out a one of the parents for chastising any of the "brothers" during the game.

THANK YOU "Brother"!... I too have been given a solid rib-shot by Mrs. Willie for advocating positive crowd behavior.

I have had a bad string of games where "brothers" of the cloth have either been inert; or even worse, participants in chastising the officials. Sadly our spineless local association is so ineffective that it isn't worth the effort to breach the subject with the so-called "leadership."