Solo Refing

[Prefontaine]

I'm a 1st year official and had a situation in a JVG game. Tried to contact my partner days leading up to the game, her cell phone (only number listed) was off and unable to contact via email. Have worked with her before and had no problems.

About 5 minuted before the start of the game, its obvious she isn't showing and I will be the only ref. I was wondering, what are some stories about having to work a game by yourself? What are you primarily looking for? Where on the court do to optimally want to position yourself, etc.?

I found myself just trying to follow the action best I could, mostly staying above the key, sometimes underneath the basket if a fast break initiated the offensive play. Probably about 95% on-ball focus. The coaches were very respectful, rarely giving heat, and actually complimented me afterwards on doing a great job.

Fortunately, got bailed out at halftime, as the V refs for the next game showed early and hopped in to run 3-person! Great experience.