2 Newbies Together

[Rich]

Originally Posted by just another ref

I think it depends on what you mean by fishing. I personally think primary coverage areas are somewhat overrated, especially in two man, and should be drawn with more overlap.

There are secondary areas of coverage that require more help/overlap in two person. But giving officials a license to reach ends up with officials grabbing calls they have no business getting.

I called one in front of my partner last week. I saw a significant bump from behind with two players chasing a loose ball that was rolling right at my partner. I had a good look from across the court through the players (there was little activity except the two players going after the ball, so I let myself look there) and my partner had to try to avoid the players, see who touched the ball last, etc. and I felt it was worth reaching over and getting. I really closed ground and sold the crap out of it, too. He agreed when we talked about it afterwards. To me, it's the exception that proves the rule, but I also think that with my experience I have a pretty good feel on when to stretch and when not to stretch.

New officials? Sure, they may get one or two right they wouldn't have otherwise, but they'll also get 5 or 6 wrong where they should've been looking elsewhere or holding their whistle because they lack the wisdom to trust their partner has a better look.