Mechanics tips

[firedoc]

I see the foul, then blow the whistle making the appropriate foul signal. I move towards the offending player and mention his color and number. Then I trot towards the reporting area (which is now larger than in the past), stop all movement, make eye contact with the scorers, and in a loud, firm voice announce the color then number of the player, and the number of shots (if any).

Obviously the hardest part is coming to a stop before reporting the foul. This does get easier with experience. My advice to new officials is to concentrate on the stop and making a clear report to the table. Remember that the game can't and won't resume until you are finished and ready.

Another problem new officials have is a burning desire to secure the ball when it bounces away. My advice would be to forget about the ball and take care of the duties you need to take care of. Again the game can't resume without a ball and the ball will somehow find its way back to you.