Staying focused

[Mark Padgett]

During the "regular" day, an almost infinite number of things happen that affect my life. Some I can control, some I can only react to. However, while officiating a game, I feel I am in total control. It's that concentration on having ultimate authority that forces my mind (such as it is) to focus on the game and not outside events.

Of course, there are some things I can't get out of my mind no matter how intense the game is, i.e.: a sick family member. Some things are just much more important than the game. I just deal with it.