Amongst the fans

[fullor30]

Originally Posted by BillyMac

Being an official has ruined my life as a basketball fan. Every time I go to a game in person, or watch one on television, I'm not watching the players, I'm watching the officials. This even happens when I go to UCONN men's, or women's game, and I'm not even a college official. I've had friends, or family, ask me, "Hey BillyMac, wasn't that a great pass?", to which I reply, "What pass? Did you see that official close down on the three point shot?".

When I eventually give up officiating, will I ever be able to go back to being a fan? Please tell me that I can go back. Someone? Please?

I too have been struck with this affliction. In surfing games on TV, my first focus is who is on game.

At our local high school, I'm now sitting on visitor's side in a corner far far away from the madding crowd. On a rare occasion when I'm with the parents, "was that a foul?" is the mantra directed at me.It's nails on a chalkboard when all the cliches come out "call it both ways" at the top of the list.

I will admit however, under my breath, watching my son's games and having some pretty green freshman refs, that I revert to being a dad. Just a momentary lapse I promise you.