My Cop/Referee Game Management Analogy

[Brian S]

As you can see, this is my first posting to this discussion group. However, I have been following discussions for a couple months now.

This is my first year officiating, and it is only at the grade school level. I've got to say that reading these discussions has helped me more than anything else to prepare for games, realize that I still have a lot to learn etc. Thanks to everyone for providing their insight to a rookie.

After reading your comments, I'm having a hard time with determining when it's O.K. not to call by the rules in the name of "game management". Is it something that you just learn with experience?

Or, should we always make the calls as we see them and by the rules, regardless of how minor we think the infraction may be?

Which is better officiating?

Again, I appreciate the insight from everyone.