Hm, what to call that guy? Here are some options.

Front judge
Back Linesman
Schmeferee
The Ocho

I'm sure you can come up with a few more. :)

Did you give her time and distance?

As somebody that has worked umpire and will be a U this year on my crew, this is a great analogy. Different sport but same concept. Hold your spot and let the play run around you. Not moving is usually the better bet but sometimes you just have to sack up and go for the ride along with everybody else. :D

I agree with others, I don't think this is wise - standing still minimizes the chance of someone reacting wrong to your actions.

Plus, let's just say you extend those arms and try to guide that player....and she accidentally trips over her feet or something - BUT, to her mom or dad or crazy fan in the stands who already hates you, it looks like you pushed her down and now you're going viral on youtube!

I've been the Umpire on my football crew for several years. How you move depends on how the play develops. Most of the time, you want to stay where you are at the snap. If the pile/scrum comes toward you, take a step or two sideways. If the hole opens up in front of you and the runner is running directly towards you, freeze and get as skinny as you can. Your brain will be screaming "BACK UP", but that's the worst thing you can do, because then all you're doing is lead-blocking for the runner.

It's a feel thing... took me about half a season to start to figure it out.

I'd apply the same principle to basketball... there's no doubt that the tosser is vulnerable during/immediately after the toss. The best thing to do is hold your position until you have a clear path out of there to your new trail position.

Goodness that's horrible advice. Took the cake this time.

I was trying to be more diplomatic in my response. :D

Peace

Well that's new. ;)

:d

Actually it is not. ;)

Peace

It was so laughable that I wondered if he was pulling our (collective) legs.

This reminded me of a TO in a girls game. I didnt let the players get back to their bench and started my mechanic. Nailed a young lady right in the chest and embarrassed us both. You can say I am much more careful with doing TO now so I dont have any illegal contact fouls called on me by my partner. No way I am extending my arms and guiding a girl around me. The closest I will come is closing my eyes and praying the girl doesn't have any illegal contact with me... LOL

Practical vs. literal
 

Do most here go to trail after making the toss? (Two person mechanics...) The manual says differently, no?

This is, in relation to jump ball....

...worst advice ever.

Not even close.