More like Mark P...

[TheOracle]

Originally Posted by Jurassic Referee

1) Yup, but you'd better know your audience too when you're making a retort. And when in doubt, STFU.

3) A-freaking-men!!!! Well said.

Great advice. Being a wise guy is great for AAU or little kid leagues, because they are always hurting for guys. Being a wise guy to a HS or college coach is asking for trouble. Officials always, always, always have to be ultra-professional and take the high road in all situations, including the smackdown in Florida last week (which they appeared to have done well). It's hard to defend against a bench full of witnesses and/or a film if things go wrong, and that is exactly what the supervisor can and will be confronted with if it goes bad. I've seen a few careers ended prematurely by veteran officials acting unprofessionally towards coaches and crowds.

[RobbyinTN]

I believe that the coach-official relationship is critical to a good game. Doesn't mean you have to take his crap but OTOH, we shouldn't be dishing it out either. The only time I have ever said anything to a coach that was less than professional was in an AAU game and it was a mild statement. I told him that if it was okay with him, I will let him coach and he can let me officiate. Otherwise, I try to show the coach some respect. If we miss a call and it is obvious and the coach says something about it later, I simply tell him "you know coach, you are right - we simply missed that one Wasn't on purpose but sometimes you miss a call. We'll take that as a lesson learned"

I have a good report with the coaches. I know they don't think every call I make is great but I don't get a lot of flack from them either. They know I do my best to call it consistent on both side of the ball. I treat them with respect and expect the same in return.

OTOH, I have no problem giving a coach a T if he deserves it.

[referee99]

Originally Posted by theoracle

officials always, always, always have to be ultra-professional and take the high road in all situations.

+1