Why do you officiate?

[Hugh Refner]

This probably has been discussed before, but the subject came up when I was talking with a guy at work the other day. He is also an official, albeit not basketball (football and baseball).

He said it fulfills a need to continue to be involved with the sports he played as a kid but is too old to play now. He said the alternative would be to coach, but he "would need to get a lobotomy" to be able to handle that.

I told him I work basketball for three reasons. First, it gives me some exercise. Second, I just love the game and really like to see kids progress up the ladder over the years. Third, (and I am not kidding here, ask my psychiatrist) I enjoy being in a position of total authority. Maybe because it's a counterbalance to my home life.

Any other reasons you guys do this?

[BillyMac]

Money is only one of several reasons, but it's a reason. I often tell people that with all the travel, meetings, committee work, evaluating younger officials, etc. that I wouldn't do this for free. It's kind of like a hobby that I can make some money on, like an amateur artist that sells a few paintings. If I didn't enjoy doing it, it wouldn't be worth the money that I make doing it.

Other reasons include staying involved with a sport that I've loved for over forty years, seeing some exciting basketball up close (we've got the best seat in the house), getting some exercise, enjoying the camaraderie of my fellow officials, forming lasting professional relationships with coaches, and athletic directors, and the challenge of continuing to improve my officiating skills, as well as helping younger officials to improve their's.

[grunewar]

Yep, this has been discussed many, many times.

Like many others, I love the game. I played for many yrs. Then, I had two boys and coached for many yrs. I started "officiating" at their practices and then lending a hand during Rec League games in a pinch. I then started working Rec games in earnest and a patched official said I had some potential and should move to the next level.....and I'm still working at it.

Like others, it keeps me close to the game, out in the community, gives me exercise, the ability to help younger officials, and some pocket change.

Mostly though it's because I look good in black and white vertical stripes (insert photo here) and I love the ref groupies!

[Hugh Refner]

Originally Posted by grunewar

Mostly though it's because I look good in black and white vertical stripes (insert photo here)

OK, I will. Which one is you?

Originally Posted by Hugh Refner

OK, I will. Which one is you?

Nah, can't be any of them. That's the picture of the groupies!

[Back In The Saddle]

Originally Posted by Ref Ump Welsch

Nah, can't be any of them. That's the picture of the groupies!

For the fame and glory. The deafening screams of thousands of adoring fans as I come through the doorway onto the court. For the absolute feeling of respect and deference, almost reverence, I get from the coaches and players.

And then I wake up.

I enjoy the challenge, the exercise, the association with the game, the friendships, and a few bucks never hurts.

[DonInKansas]

Originally Posted by Hugh Refner

TThird, (and I am not kidding here, ask my psychiatrist) I enjoy being in a position of total authority. Maybe because it's a counterbalance to my home life.

That's on my list too. I can't just eject my wife when she gets out of line.