Trust your partner?

[canuckrefguy]

Gentlemen and Ladies, I need advice...

Got the rest of my February assignments today, and I have a BIG Varsity Boys game between two cross-town rivals towards the end of the month. It will have playoff implications, as these two teams are close in the standings. Having done them each twice already, I know they will press and fast-break the whole game. It will be a track meet with heavy, heavy duty stuff in the paint.

I feel AWFUL writing this, but I'm not sure what to do. If I seek wisdom from my mentors in my assc., they will know what and whom I am referring to.

My partner for this big game (2-person crew only) is a guy who's been reffing for 10+ years, but has never risen above the JV level in ability (or shown a desire to). This is not only my opinion, but that of many vets in my assc, including evaluators. He's a great guy, but has trouble keeping up with the play at this level, and to be honest, does not call a great game. He's been doing MS and JV all year, with 2-3 Varsity games thrown in.

I am not the second coming of Earl Strom or Dick Vevetta, but I have worked hard to advance to my present level (Varsity and JUCO), and know what it takes.

SO...what do you do when you're unsure of your partner?

Frankly, I feel like a coward. I'm actually considering turning the game back, because I don't think I deserve a plum assignment with this attitude.

If I'm being a jerk, if I'm unprofessional, or if I need a slap, please tell me. I'll give my head a shake, tell myself to get over it, and move on. Otherwise, any advice would help a lot.

This probably seems like a pathetic, self-pitying situation, but I could use the wisdom that the vets on this board seem to provide. I thank you.