I think one thing that's missing here is a lot of times the things that make up the first impression aren't thought about. It may be subconscious, but it doesn't make it less real.

I belong to an organization that runs one of the biggest camps in the state of Illinois on one day. Three retailers come to our camps (in all sports) and Honigs and Gerry Davis are two of the regulars along with a company called Official's Call. I cannot think of a single one of them that brings a single pair of pants with belts. Now if they do they are certainly not front and center, just like when the Baseball and Softball Clinic comes around you do not see other items that would be considered "amateur" in nature in those sports.

Peace

Obviously, that would be one of the first things talked about, because that is the first thing they would see. But I would think (hope) that what they see later would often overshadow uniform issues, whether positive or negative.

"That guy looks sharp, but it's obvious he has never called at this level."

"That guy looks like he slept in that uniform, but he sure knows what he's doing."

I would rather not be either of those, but I'd rather be the second than the first.

I would rather not called either.

I will say this again. The fact that you are just about the only person trying to dismiss the way you look is telling to me.

I do not read anyone trying to act as if what we wear is irrelevant.

Peace

I dismiss everyone's appearance, relatively speaking. My last 2 partners were quite a contrast. One wears beltless pants, is always neat, and in great shape..........and rarely blows the whistle. My partner last night has small white stripes on his shoes and often has his shirt tail hanging out at the end of the night. But the second guy has been around a long time, is totally unflappable, and while he is not my favorite partner, calls the same game every night regardless of the situation.

I'd like to have the first guy pose for the pictures, in both our places, but anybody who has seen both would rather be on the court with the second guy.

False Dichotomy

It's like asking if you should learn the rules or learn how to deal with coaches. Someone asked recently about "the whole package." This is part of the whole package; and deciding to ignore a piece of it may work well in some areas of the country, but not very many.

Not saying ignore it, just saying keep it in it's proper perspective.

It is in proper perspective. You will not get a second chance to prove to people you can do the job if you give them the wrong first impression. To sometimes know that someone can officiate takes a lot longer to find out than what you first show them. And that is like anything in life.

Peace

They need to speak up at the time, saying that it isn't acceptable and then follow up through their association.

Rita

+1