Sore Losers/Game Management (kinda long)

[canuckrefguy]

Sounds like you did fine. I hate games like that. But they happen. And they're good tests for officials, because those are the games that can become fiascos if you're not careful. They're also perfect opp's to work on awareness, game management, etc.

If I have Team B losing by a lot, with a lot of time still to go, I try to do a few things:

(I know you're no rookie, so you probably know this anyway, just so I don't come off as patronizing)

Suck the whistle on Team B: call the fouls that need calling to prevent dirty play, and pass on the rest. Likewise for violations; call the obvious three-step travel, but pass on the rest. If B1 beats A1 to the hoop by changing his pivot foot and then dribbling, I don't care. We want the clock to keep moving. If Team A coach complains once, apologize. If he keeps complaining, tell him you missed it cuz you were too busy checking out the scoreboard.

Team A, up by 30-40, hopefully is playing easy, and not trying to win by 100. If they continue to press or otherwise play aggressively, make sure contact gets called. This reduces the chance of increasing Team B's frustration, and helps things flow easier (move clock, move!)

Just for clarity, so I don't get flamed to death, Team B does not get to "do what they want". If they're losing by 50 AND they're a bunch of jerks, DO NOT TOLERATE ANY CRAP.

But the idea here is keep the clock moving and make it as non-eventful a butt-kicking for Team B as possible.

Now, the coach. Right from the time you start to feel him deteriorating into Bobby Knight II the sequel, make an effort to hear him out. Answer his questions. Be nice. This DOES NOT MEAN let him run wild or walk all over you. Be receptive, be nice, but be firm. We don't need to whack the coach who's losing by 40 unless we have no other choice.

As for the parents, tune 'em out unless they cross the line big time.

Not sure if this helps, and I'm sure others more qualified than me will have advice they want to add.

[Edited by canuckrefguy on Jan 31st, 2003 at 04:09 AM]