An Open Letter to Sports Fans

WRITTEN BY LORI JO BERG

I remember it like it was yesterday.

We were playing in a sixth-grade basketball tournament and a few of the opposing team’s fans didn’t like the way the referee was calling the game. I watched as they moved down closer so the ref could hear every word.

The ref eventually had enough and walked off the floor. Just like that, the game was over. Talk about not appreciating what you have until it’s gone.

The funny thing is, not one of those angry fans stepped up to fill his place so the game could continue.

Why?

Because it’s a hard job. It’s a thankless job. It takes time. And in the end, someone is always upset with the calls you made.

We’ve all heard the saying “Don’t judge a man before you walk a mile in his shoes.” It’s natural to think we could do better. The calls seem obvious. But until you’ve actually coached or refereed a game, you really can’t understand how difficult it is.

As for that sixth-grade game, we all learned a couple of lessons that day. First, we need referees, umpires and officials if we want to play the sports we love.

Second, refs are only human. Just as athletes make mistakes playing the game, so do referees.

Many people may not realize that most referees, especially in youth sports, are simply volunteers. And if they do get paid, it’s very little. Growing up with a father who was a coach and a referee, I saw instances where spectators ruined the experience for everyone involved.

In the bigger picture, sports are a learning platform for real life. They teach teamwork, communication skills and work ethic. They can also be our first experience with the fact that not everything is going to go our way.

Our kids are always watching and I’m not sure yelling at the ref for every call we question sends the right message. Don’t get me wrong, here. I’m all for working hard, holding kids accountable, reaching goals and helping kids see the value of dedication to the sport they love.

But there’s a shortage of officials for a reason. Let’s not be one more reason.

So, the next time you come across a referee or an official, try trading those insults for a thank you or a handshake so we can continue to enjoy the sports we love.

Lori Jo Berg is a Montana Native, mother of three and freelance writer who enjoys writing about the tougher side of life and connecting with her audience on a deeper level.