Should new refs have a identifier?

[BillyMac]

Originally Posted by Smitty

I think that would have the opposite effect. Bad idea.

Agree. Here in our little corner of the Land of Steady Habits, rookie officials already have an identifier, they don't have an IAABO patch. Coaches, and fans, can, and do, pick up on this. They're not as dumb as we say they are.

[Adam]

Originally Posted by BillyMac

Agree. Here in our little corner of the Land of Steady Habits, rookie officials already have an identifier, they don't have an IAABO patch. Coaches, and fans, can, and do, pick up on this. They're not as dumb as we say they are.

This is true; my first year in IAABO, I was patched but working a game without a patch (my true rookie partner had his patch on). One of the fans, right before half time, "go back to school and get your patch!" I really wished I had a patched shirt in my suitcase to switch, just for effect.

[Rich]

Originally Posted by Snaqwells

This is true; my first year in IAABO, I was patched but working a game without a patch (my true rookie partner had his patch on). One of the fans, right before half time, "go back to school and get your patch!" I really wished I had a patched shirt in my suitcase to switch, just for effect.

This concept of a patch equals credibility is about as dumb as it gets. NCAA officials don't wear patches during the regular season. I'm *thrilled* we wear no patches here in WI for HS games.

[Adam]

Originally Posted by RichMSN

This concept of a patch equals credibility is about as dumb as it gets. NCAA officials don't wear patches during the regular season. I'm *thrilled* we wear no patches here in WI for HS games.

Yeah, it was odd to me, coming here from Iowa where state patches were authorized but not worn.

[TheBest]

As I mentioned it was just a passing thought as I was reading some other thread that was discussing the concern of a new person on the court. After reading the first few comments, I realized how naive I was in thinking that audiences would be that forgiving... Hence I did/do not have much more to say http://forum.officiating.com/images/smilies/frown.gif