Your Signal Peeves?

[bob jenkins]

Originally Posted by Smitty

For 2-man mechanics, it is usually discussed in pregame who will take the last shot. A lot depends on clock locations, if there aren't 2 clocks.

Why? You should be listening for the horn, not watching the clock. It shouldn't matter where the clocks are located (or even if there is no clock at all).

[Smitty]

Originally Posted by bob jenkins

Why? You should be listening for the horn, not watching the clock. It shouldn't matter where the clocks are located (or even if there is no clock at all).

Because the person who is facing the clock is able to see when the clock is getting close to zero. Think about it. If you have a clock only on one end of the gym and you haven't switched in a couple minutes, you may only be getting very quick looks occasionally during transition. Of course we listen for the horn, but if you aren't aware of the time left, you can be surprised by the horn, and that's never good.

[bob jenkins]

Originally Posted by Smitty

Because the person who is facing the clock is able to see when the clock is getting close to zero. Think about it. If you have a clock only on one end of the gym and you haven't switched in a couple minutes, you may only be getting very quick looks occasionally during transition. Of course we listen for the horn, but if you aren't aware of the time left, you can be surprised by the horn, and that's never good.

The quick looks should be sufficient, expecially with good communication within the crew. Plus, one of the teams will have their backs to the clock for the entire period -- someone will be notifying them of the time remaining.

I agree that you shouldn't be surprised, but having your back to the clock doesn't (or shouldn't) lead to being surprised.