We don't use any un-approved crew signals in Alabama. I tend to agree that the catch signal (as weel as the wide signal and several others) is unnecessary. It seems like we are trying to explain our call or reassure ourselves that the call is correct when we use these type signals.

And this was my point, too. I don't work the wing often anymore, and I can't remember using this signal more than once or twice in all the time I did, but I'm not going to be anal if someone does use it, unless the other official is signalling an incomplete pass at the same time.

Of course, there's nobody to downgrade my crew over such silliness, either.

I'm looking at the signal chart in the NFHS manual right now along with the recommended crew signals. There's one I like that isn't in there -- the linesman (on a play with about five yards to go to the line-to-gain) will signal me with an open hand either forward or backward -- "five will get you one." This tells me whether a five yard penalty on the defense will yield a first down.

If it's too close that he can't tell, it means we're going to measure using the tape before marching off the penalty. I haven't had to do this yet, but I'd rather measure using the existing spot then move the ball forward and THEN bring out the chains.

I'm surprised that everyone is so rigid on signals, but maybe those folks don't work with the same crew week after week. I do, so we know what each of us are signalling. And once again, I don't have the signal police nagging us -- in any sport I work. Even in basketball I saw crews working the state final lasty year using NCAA basketball mechanics and signals. No comment whether good or bad, just my observation.

--Rich

I work with the same crews every week and we are not allowed to use the signal. That is what the powers that be say that is what we do. And I work basketball as well (you already know this of course) and there are signals that the higher levels do that you cannot do at the HS level. That is just the way it is with this.

Peace

If you do use the signals, who is there to police you? Take away assignments?

Not allowed means that there are repercussions for using the signal. I've not noticed that in IL, but I have no desire to move up the ladder there, just work the occasional assignment. I'm just not that anal about it -- I'm more concerned with calling a good game.

BTW, Jeff, Part I hoops is online as of today.

--Rich

Rich:

We have local evaluators who show up unannounced, even in lower games. A couple of weeks ago one showed up at a B-8 game 70 miles from town. Local evaluations definitely have an impact on ratings, thus on assignments.

Additionally, state evaluators show up from time to time. Their reviews can effect ratings and chances of getting state play-off games.

Fair enough. And when in Rome, I am very capable of doing as the Romans do. I know and use the proper signals and mechanics myself, but wouldn't be bothered if a wing made a catch signal.

I'm just trying to provide some balance -- it seems in every sport there is more emphasis put on which signals to use, which uniforms to wear, and whose a$$ to kiss rather than using sound judgement and good officiating practices.

--Rich

I think using extra signals like this is very helpful at times. By doing that you are indicating why the pass was incomplete. If a player bobbling is the ball on the side line before going OOB and then catches it it can be very helpful to the coaches and the fans to "tell" them why you are calling incomplete pass. The same can be said for catching the ball but not getting a foot inbounds. If you are very clear as to why you are calling it the way you are then you may have less trouble from the coaches.

I got that last week.
 

Assignors, state evaluators and even sometimes fellow officials might have a say. I am not saying you will lose a playoff assignment just because you use this signal, but you might get downgraded for using an unauthorized signal. Just like it might not hurt you to wear a "sportsmanship patch" that we used to have, but it surely cannot help if noticed. You might not lose and assignment, but you might have someone say something to you if you are seen doing it.

I am not saying you will lose all your assignments or even one assignment as a result of using an improper mechanic. I am just saying that using these types of signals might be the one of several things they might hold against you when you want to move to the next level (whatever that might be for you). My point is why give them ammo. Dave Gannaway and our Head Football Clinician are sticklers for proper mechanics. I received my first playoff game as a Registered official, because I was observed and used proper mechanics. I am not suggesting that is the only way to the top or further opportunities, but it does not hurt to use signals that are only approved by the NF and your respective state body. You know the saying, when in Rome you do as the Romans do. If it is not a big deal with your association and the powers that be in your area, then I have no personal issue with using the signal. You have to answer to them, not me. :D

I received the test either Tuesday or Wednesday of last week in the mail. I finished the day I received it in the mail. A bunch of friends this weekend will be going over the test before our association meetings start. I will let you know what I got in about a week. The test seems really easy this year. Maybe it is easier because they do not limit a topic to only four questions. It is easier to find the answers in the rulebook.

Peace

Re: I got that last week.
 

I use the IHSA online portion as a practice test for the one that counts for me -- the WIAA exam. I am going back to reciprocal status next season, so this is the last year I'll have that luxury.

I took the exam closed book in about 15 minutes last night. Scored a 93. Good enough for me -- we only need 90 in WI to retain master status.

Re: Re: I got that last week.
 

The Basketball test really was not that hard. There are a couple of questions that I cannot find the exact rule for. I also look up and list every question and the rule that covers it. That is a great way to read the rulebook as well.

Peace

Re: Re: Re: I got that last week.
 

To be honest, basketball is the easiest sport I work in terms of rules. Compared with baseball and football, basketball ALMOST runs itself.

--Rich

back on topic
 

sorry guys, I can't stand basketball, but I am glad for you and your exams...:D

Arkansas has dictated that, on an incomplete pass, we are not to signal to stop the clock. This is because "everyone" knows that the clock stops on an incomplete pass. This attitude irritates the snot out of me. I like the incomplete/stop clock combo because, when in the R position, I have a good indication of what just happened down field.

As for the catch, no catch signal, I have used both only once in the last four years. Both times when I had an excellent view on a close play. Neither time did I hear a peep from the coaches. They both thought that if I was that adamant about a call then I must be sure about my call.

Re: back on topic
 

And I find nothing more idiotic than the SEC incomplete-stop clock combo. Or the SEC TD-stop clock combo. I think you get all kind of opinions on things like this.

--Rich

Re: Re: back on topic
 

I agree. Yes, it is true that "everyone" probably is not aware that the clock stops on an incomplete forward pass, but the clock operator in a college game damn well better know it stops (excuse my French).