Interference/Obstruction

[Rita C]

Originally Posted by IRISHMAFIA

But while we are on the subject of an umpire being charge, I find this the best way to handle it:

Hold up your left hand straight out, palm forward. Just as you would to hold up a pitcher, but keep it at chest level.

Calmly direct the individual to stop. Do not scream, that doesn't help.

If the individual keeps coming and makes contact with your hand or you feel the need to step back to avoid contact, ejection is an appropriate response. Do not try to stare or scream him/her down, search for the new head coach of that individuals team. Inform this individual of the ejection and the need to remove him/her from the field. Do not threaten with ultimatums. When you get the "I need to ask something" comment, suggest a post game conversation which can be appropriate, but at this point in time, you need to get back to playing the game.

If the individual does stop, calmly ask them to catch his/her breath and calm down. Talk, do not scream, that may exacerbate the situation. When the individual becomes calm, ask him/her, nicely, what you can do for them. Have a conversation, not an argument. Listen to what s/he has to say. Provide your ruling and move on with the game.

JMHO and mechanic that has worked for me and a few others

It may be just me, but telling me to calm down has the opposite effect. Is there another phrase that could be used?

Rita

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by Rita C

It may be just me, but telling me to calm down has the opposite effect. Is there another phrase that could be used?

Rita

Absolutely. You are looking for a result, not a "one size fits all" solution.

Options might include "OK, coach, you have my attention, so let's proceed like adults; what would you like to ask me?" It should get the same intended result; while there are many things that can be said to inflame the situation, the goal is to let the coach understand that a conversation/discussion is the best opportunity for his position or belief to be considered.

[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

Originally Posted by AtlUmpSteve

Absolutely. You are looking for a result, not a "one size fits all" solution.

Options might include "OK, coach, you have my attention, so let's proceed like adults; what would you like to ask me?" It should get the same intended result; while there are many things that can be said to inflame the situation, the goal is to let the coach understand that a conversation/discussion is the best opportunity for his position or belief to be considered.

AUS:

Asking a "howler monkey" (for those who do not frequent the Basketball Forum) to "proceed like aduts" just made my day.

MTD, Sr.