a valuable tool

[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by whitehat

Just thought I would contribute some thoughts on what has seemed to be a valuable tool that past couple of games. Many newer officials and some veteran officials, chain crews and even head linesman have no idea why there is a section of tape directly in the middle of the chain (at the 5 yard mark).

This is one of the most commonly taught things in our area. I would be surprised if officials did not know what the tape was for.

Peace

[jaybird]

Originally Posted by JRutledge

This is one of the most commonly taught things in our area. I would be surprised if officials did not know what the tape was for.

Yep, same here.

[With_Two_Flakes]

Over here in the UK, I encourage my guys to use a coloured zip tie. I find bright yellow shows up best against green grass or against brown mud. If a zip tie gets dirty, they wipe clean easy whereas tape gets dirty and stays dirty.

As HL, I instruct my down box operator to help me out by telling me short (<5) or long (>5) that way I don't have to turn to look myself and I can keep my eyes where they belong - on the players. I'll pass that short/long info on to the White Hat/Umpire so they know.

Also keep a black zip tie inside the brow of my hat in case the chain breaks.