Question from a fan

[BillyMac]

Originally Posted by fiasco

I also don't look down on officials who choose to remove themselves or block themselves from games where there could be a conflict of interest, perceived or otherwise.

From our recently approved Code of Ethics and Conduct:

Board members shall recognize that anything which may lead to a conflict of interest either real or
apparent must be avoided. Gifts, favors, special treatment, privileges, employment or personal
relationship with a school or team which can compromise the perceived impartiality of officiating must be
avoided.

[Cobra]

Originally Posted by JRutledge

I could literally give a damn what fans think of my job.

Literally that means that you could give a damn what fans think. You do care about what they believe. Going by the rest of your post you probably meant to say that you couldn't give a damn what fans think. You do not care about what they think.

[grunewar]

Originally Posted by Cobra

Literally that means that you could give a damn what fans think. You do care about what they believe. Going by the rest of your post you probably meant to say that you couldn't give a damn what fans think. You do not care about what they think.

Wonder if he's gonna give a darn about this post.

(or as another poster might say, "He just might not give a carp!")

[bainsey]

I block myself from games involving my sons' middle and high schools (exhibition games notwithstanding). While I know I would be objective at them, there are plenty of schools to serve, so I don't see why I would even put myself in that position.

As for what fans think, consider the source.

[fullor30]

Originally Posted by Cobra

Literally that means that you could give a damn what fans think. You do care about what they believe. Going by the rest of your post you probably meant to say that you couldn't give a damn what fans think. You do not care about what they think.

Verb 1. give a damn - show no concern or interest; always used in the negative; "I don't give a hoot"; "She doesn't give a damn about her job"
care a hang, give a hang,

I know what you were going for here.....had to look it up.

[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by Cobra

Literally that means that you could give a damn what fans think. You do care about what they believe. Going by the rest of your post you probably meant to say that you couldn't give a damn what fans think. You do not care about what they think.

OK if it matters to you.

Peace

[Adam]

Originally Posted by JRutledge

OK if it matters to you.

Peace

Meet Mr Annoying Cliche Guy.

[Lastkidpicked]

How far east?

Northeast part of Colorado. Closest towns are Ft. Morgan, New Raymer, Sterling. Crop prices are WAY WAY up, by the way. Everybody's in a good mood.

That being said, in a small town, with few officials, what are the choices?

And that's just it. Many a Middle School game has been officiated by one of the Dads, wearing a black shirt and whistle purchased at the hardware store on the way to the game.

[Rich]

One of the coaches at a school where I work a lot of non-conference games played the town I live in a BV contest last night. Over Christmas (I was working a holiday tourney), he mentioned his next game, looked at me, and said, "Of course I didn't ask you to work that game."

I was a bit disappointed -- not with the snub (I can't work every game *and* I was already booked nonetheless), but with the mindset. The coach is an excellent high school baseball umpire in the area and seems pretty happy with my work (considering he has me back, I'm assuming that's true).

(BTW, I've lived here for 3.5 years and still work non-conference games at the HS, which is about a 2 minute drive from my house. Hiring me doesn't buy a single call -- I still don't care who wins and I don't have any relatives or children working or going to school at the HS. I'm just thrilled that it's close to home and a pretty nice place to work.)

[Nevadaref]

Cobra,
I've now been on this forum for ten years. Let me share something that I've learned with you.
Trying to tell Rut anything =

[Camron Rust]

Originally Posted by Nevadaref

Cobra,
I've now been on this forum for ten years. Let me share something that I've learned with you.
Trying to tell Rut anything =

But, that is a local thing.

[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by Nevadaref

Cobra,
I've now been on this forum for ten years. Let me share something that I've learned with you.
Trying to tell Rut anything =

I only listen to people I respect. You are not one of those people. And it appears I am not alone as the comments you have gotten over the years.

Peace

[JugglingReferee]

Originally Posted by Lastkidpicked

I have to say that my respect for officials has increased dramatically since I started following you all on here. Question from a fan:

Our area (eastern Colorado) is made up of many smaller towns and all the adults know most of the kids as it really does take a village. Some kids especially make me proud as I have watched them grow up.

My question for you as officials: In that environment can you still officiate a game? Do you worry about being percieved as a "homer"?

Would you worry that after a close game the losing team might express their sour grapes by saying, "Well, no wonder. The center for that team is in the Ref's 4-H club!"

Thank you again for what you do.

I live in a small town and many officials wear many hats. I stay away from crap, and i remain professional in my conduct.

If other people want to play conspiracy theory, they can go for it.

[mbyron]

Originally Posted by JugglingReferee

I live in a small town and many officials wear many hats. I stay away from crap, and i remain professional in my conduct.

If other people want to play conspiracy theory, they can go for it.

This is a great answer. Whether an official can work a game where he or she's well known depends on the official's character, professionalism, and attitude. An official with integrity can work anywhere.

I also agree that the losing side might still carp, but that always happens.

[dsqrddgd909]

Originally Posted by Lastkidpicked

I have to say that my respect for officials has increased dramatically since I started following you all on here. Question from a fan:

Our area (eastern Colorado) is made up of many smaller towns and all the adults know most of the kids as it really does take a village. Some kids especially make me proud as I have watched them grow up.

My question for you as officials: In that environment can you still officiate a game? Do you worry about being percieved as a "homer"?

Would you worry that after a close game the losing team might express their sour grapes by saying, "Well, no wonder. The center for that team is in the Ref's 4-H club!"

Thank you again for what you do.

Live in a small town, but just moved here from out of state. My partners all know someone either on the team, coaching or playing.

As I tell my friends, when I make a mistake in passing on a call or making a call it's because I made an error in judgement, not because I have any bias.