MHSAA-Referee Magazine-April 2024

FIGHTING BAD BEHAVIOR

FEATURES

24 CONFIDENCE

The secret to unshakable performance for sports officials? Mental fitness.

36 STUDENT TEACHER

After an illustrious career, Mike Eades embraces making everyone else better as a coordinator.

48 BEATING BACK BAD BEHAVIOR

Since fans have been allowed back in sporting venues following the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a noticeable spike in poor behavior.

76 YOU ARE THERE: CAN WE BORROW YOUR ZAMBONI?

A nearby hockey rink saved the Toronto Blue Jays’ first Opening Day.

ON THE COVER

Edwin Moscoso

Palo Negro, Aragua, Venezuela

Age: 33

Occupation: MLB umpire

Officiating experience: Attended MiLB Umpire Academy. Umpired his first MLB game on July 23, 2020. Hired to full-time MLB staff in 2023.

SPORTS

16 SOFTBALL

United We Stand, Divided We ... Make Yours the Best Crew You Ever Knew; NCAA Adopts New Signals for 2024; Injury Inquiry; Hold Your Zone

30 BASKETBALL

Don’t Be Caught Dead: The Ins and Outs of the Dead Ball Rule; Chasing a Perfect ‘10’; The Art of Moving Parts

42 SOCCER

Inspection Attention: A Hands-on Approach to Spotting Trouble Before It Hits; Positional Decisions; Watch the Hands

52 BASEBALL

Come On, Let’s Dish! Try This Recipe for a Great Plate Meeting; Good Luck Legislating Lefties; How to Handle Fight Night

62 VOLLEYBALL

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: Ask the Crew to Accurately Rule; Control the Controllables; 5MW Julie Voeck

68 FOOTBALL

QB or Not QB? The Passer

Involved in Fouls Is Not Always the Quarterback; The Impetus Behind Force; Solving PSK Puzzles; Not All Is Fair in Catches

78 ALL SPORTS

Out of the Tunnel: Tunnel Vision Tribulations, Troubles and Turmoil; Tips for Camp Instructors; No Way? How to Defeat Negativity

COLUMNS

4 PUBLISHER’S MEMO

The Groan I Can’t Forget

10 THE GAG RULE

Snap Shot: Helping People Is an Easy Call; They Get It; Survey Says; Say What?

12 THE NEWS

WOA, WIAA Launch Test of Body Cameras; N.J. Officials Cleared of Bias in Hair Matter; PSRA Officials Authorize Potential Strike

60 GETTING IT RIGHT

GHSA Nets Falcons Grant; Going Green; Above and Beyond

74 PROFILES

Indy Official Works Every Gym in Hoosier State; Sixty-Year Career; Official Recognition

82 FOR THE RECORD

NFL Postseason, College Bowl Game Assignments

84 LAW

Does the CTA Apply to Me?; Officiate, Don’t Instigate With Fans; Don’t Neglect to Inspect

85 CLASSIFIEDS

Camps/Clinics/Schools; Equipment/Apparel; Leadership Resources; Training Resources

86 LAST CALL

A Very Special Flyover: “But my brother wasn’t on the field standing next to me. Instead, he was in one of the two F-15s that flew overhead at the conclusion of the anthem.”

SOFTBALL HIGHLIGHT THIS MONTH

Umpires must work together and be on the same page to succeed on the field. This starts from the pregame meeting as the crew chief leads the discussion.

MICHAEL ALLIO/ICON SPORTSWIRE/NEWSCOM (EADES), DALE GARVEY (SOFTBALL), BILL GREENBLATT/UPI

PUBLISHER’S MEMO

Watch the video at referee.com/pubmemo

The Groan I Can’t Forget

Do me a favor — allow me a walk down memory lane this month. I seldom use this space for such a walk. There are so many important issues affecting all of us in officiating, I intend to use this column to share my thoughts about those with you. But for just this month, I wanted to kick back and “relive” one particular experience I had during my 23 years as an oncourt basketball referee. It came at a time when I was winding down my active officiating life mainly because I had started this magazine a few years earlier and I could sense the need to focus my efforts on that more than fulfilling officiating assignments.

OK, there is a black-and-white enlargement photo in my collection that keeps popping into my mind. The photo shows Bob Staak, then-basketball coach of Xavier, left arm and fist in the air, squared up, closing in on my face, screaming at me. The photo is from a men’s D-I game I worked back in 1983. Let’s see, that would be 41 years ago! I do believe we officials can have long memories. Anyway, here is the story behind the photo.

It was a rivalry game. Xavier was playing state rival Dayton. I had just ejected two kids for fighting, one being Xavier’s star forward. I also had ejected a player from Dayton, but that is getting ahead of my story.

Near the end of the first half, on a rebounding play, two forwards simultaneously elbowed each other in the mouth. They squared off and I, working the endline (crew of two in those days), immediately stepped forward and got between them. One player tried to punch the other player and he responded in kind. Both swings

missed. As I looked to my left, I noticed another pair of players had squared off, ready to fight. It was then the sellout crowd uttered a terrible groan. I remember thinking something very bad was going to happen if I didn’t get the situation calmed down.

Xavier’s mascot, a musketeer wielding a real sword no less, was waving the darn thing in front of the Dayton crowd and those folks were about to explode. Security got to the area just in the nick of time. As that developed, I was muscling between the two guards who were starting to swing at each other. No blows landed and I kept moving back and forth between the two arguing groups. Within a minute or two the players were somewhat settled down, but many others were still agitated and milling around. The two forwards who started the ruckus faded into the crowd.

Without people screaming and yelling at each other, I now had a chance to gather my thoughts. It was at this point I realized I did not exactly remember the numbers of the original two culprits. I couldn’t seem to locate the Dayton player, but finally found him crouched down sitting at the end of the team’s bench. I then thought I remembered who the Xavier violator was, found him and announced to Coach Staak that the offender was done. That is when Staak erupted and the photo was snapped.

After a few more minutes, my partner and I were able to clear the floor, shoot some free throws and finish the remaining 90 seconds of the half. We then went to our dressing room for halftime. When we came back onto the floor the guy doing the color commentary for the TV broadcast motioned me over. He said he had reviewed the “tape” of the precipitating incident and that I had gotten the correct two players ejected. I said to him: “Yeah, I had it the whole way.” Never a doubt. Hah!

Chief Strategy Officer/Publisher

Barry Mano

Chief Operating Officer/Executive Editor

Bill Topp

Chief Marketing Officer

Jim Arehart

Chief Business Development Officer

Ken Koester

Managing Editor

Brent Killackey

Assistant Managing Editor

Julie Sternberg

Senior Editor

Jeffrey Stern

Associate Editors

Brad Tittrington

Scott Tittrington

Assistant Editors

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Brad Star

Copy Editor

Jean Mano

Director of Design, Digital Media and Branding

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Publication Design Manager

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Graphic Designer

Dustin Brown

Video Coordinator

Mike Dougherty

Comptroller

Marylou Clayton

Data Analyst/Fulfillment Manager

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Marketing Manager

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Marketing Coordinator

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Director of Administration and Sales Support

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Office Administrator

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Client Services Support Specialists

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Editorial Contributors

Jon Bible, Mark Bradley, George Demetriou, Alan Goldberger, Judson Howard, Peter Jackel, Dan Ronan, Tim Sloan, Steven L. Tietz, Rick Woelfel

These organizations offer ongoing assistance to Referee: Collegiate Commissioners Association, MLB, MLS, NBA, NCAA, NFHS, NISOA, NFL, NHL, Minor League Baseball Umpire Development and U.S. Soccer. Their input is appreciated.

Contributing Photographers

Ralph Echtinaw, Dale Garvey, Carin Goodall-Gosnell, Bill Greenblatt, Jann Hendry, Keith Johnston, Jack Kapenstein, Ken Kassens, Bob Messina, Bill Nichols, Ted Oppegard, Heston Quan, Dean Reid, VIP

Editorial Board

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BILL STRAUS

The Spirit of Sportsmanship and Fair Play

Longtime Officials, Statistician Honored as ‘Behind-the-Scenes’ Heroes

Jerry Sauder thought he was going to be a presenter on that Thursday night in March, as his alma mater Brown City was honoring officials Curt Lowe and Joel Venia and school statistician Todd Vandewarker for their decades of service.

But that was simply a ruse by fellow official Tom Mailloux and Brown City athletic director Tony Burton to get Sauder there to join the ceremony and receive his own award for 50 years as an official.

With Sauder on the court, 175 total years of involvement with athletics were honored between the JV and varsity Unionville-Sebewaing vs. Brown City girls basketball

games. Sauder spent 50 years as an official, Lowe and Venia 45, and Vandewarker has spent 35 years as a statistician, all across multiple sports.

“Tonight, we gather to pay tribute to those whose steadfast dedication has woven the fabric of excellence into the tapestry of Michigan high school athletics,” Brown City principal Brad Hale said to kick off the ceremony. “It is with profound gratitude that we extend our heartfelt appreciation to the unsung heroes behind the scenes – the pillars whose tireless efforts ensure that each game unfolds seamlessly, each moment etched with the spirit of sportsmanship and fair play. … Tonight, we shine a spotlight

on a few whose commitment spans decades, illuminating the path for generations of athletes to follow.”

Sauder’s 50 years as an official included 25 as a Division I college basketball referee. He is currently working in an administrative role with Elite Officiating, overseeing officials in the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association, Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference. He’s officiated NCAA Tournament games and contests around the world after getting noticed at a camp at Western Michigan University.

“I’ve always said I’m the luckiest guy to put on a shirt,” he said. “I

MHSAA-registered officials Curt Lowe, Joel Venia and Jerry Sauder and Brown City statistician Todd Vandewarker stand together as they are celebrated at Brown City High School.

was fortunate enough to be selected to be given the opportunity. There’s a lot of guys that could have but weren’t set up to do it at that time.”

During his time as a high school official, Sauder officiated MHSAA Finals for basketball and football. He also spent time officiating baseball and softball games.

He began officiating when his best friend Jim Seidell, a longtime coach and administrator in Brown City, convinced him to start. Sauder knows his path isn’t a common one, and that it’s not easy to convince people to get into officiating. But with perseverance, opportunities are available.

“There’s a dire need right now,” Sauder said. “We’ve got to do something because if we don’t, high school sports as we know it is going to suffer. … I was fortunate to have good people around me that mentored me. Kids start, they last a couple years and they walk away from it. They don’t pay enough money to get yelled at like people go at you now. I don’t blame the young people.”

Lowe, who officiated Thursday night’s JV game before the ceremony, got his start thanks to Sauder and Seidell. Also a Brown City graduate, Lowe’s 45 years of officiating include

quick tip

Project confidence even if you don’t feel it. You might be nervous about the rivalry game that is about to start. You might be a little unsure if you’re ready for your first varsity game. No matter what doubts you have, come across with a belief in your abilities. If it’s a close call, sell your decision … even if you’re unsure about it. Participants don’t need to know what’s going on in your head. It’s OK to fake it if you have to.

multiple assignments at MHSAA Football and Basketball Finals. He’s also been on the court for women’s college basketball games.

“Officiating is like family,” Lowe said. “I have met so many people – wonderful people. And, over 45 years, it’s been a ton.”

While he’s worked plenty of games in the Thumb, much of Lowe’s time as an official was spent in the Saginaw and Flint area, where he was able to officiate games featuring some of the state’s greatest athletes, including Mateen Cleaves, Draymond Green, Mark Ingram and the late Charles Rogers.

“Those were the best games, and Jerry got me in there,” Lowe said. “That was the best ball ever. It was just amazing to watch.”

Lowe’s crew Thursday night included a pair of younger officials who later officiated the varsity game with Mailloux. Lowe thinks it’s a great opportunity for athletes who want to stay connected to sports.

Venia’s start in officiating was more by happenstance. He was working the scoreboard for rec basketball games in his hometown of Marysville, and one day needed to fill in as an official. After reffing the game, he made $10 as opposed to the $5 he got for running the scoreboard and made the move.

He’s still doing football games but is no longer on the basketball court or softball or baseball diamonds.

“It’s probably the contacts you make in the little towns,” Venia said about what has kept him in the officiating business. “I go down to the Macomb area and do that. In football, we always take five games up in the Thumb. I know so many people up here. With the kids, it keeps you younger, keeps you moving.”

Like Sauder and Lowe, Venia has officiated multiple MHSAA Football and Basketball Finals.

He played football, basketball and baseball in high school, and thinks that experience can be “tremendous” for future officials. But he was quick to point out that those who don’t have that experience can also thrive.

“I’ve worked with a couple guys that never played,” Venia said.

“(Mailloux) never played football, but he’s a good football official. I mentored a guy that never played basketball, Jordan Stevens, who is the softball coach at South Dakota State. He never played basketball, never played football, but he was a very good official. I think it gives you an advantage, but by no means is it a barrier if you haven’t played.”

The person with the best seat in the house as Sauder, Lowe and Venia have run up and down the court or football field in Brown City has been Vandewarker, who was celebrated for his decades of service as a statistician.

When asked how he got started, he pointed at Burton.

“That guy suckered me into it,” Vandewarker said with a laugh.

Vandewarker was himself a Brown City athlete, competing in football, basketball and track. Over his more than three decades keeping stats, he’s seen several great Green Devils and opposing athletes – so many that he couldn’t narrow them down.

“A couple thousand (games),” he said. “I’ve seen some stuff, I’ve seen some good stuff. A lot of good players. Too many memorable ones to mention, I guess. I’ve seen the best of the coaches and heard everything they have to say. Best of the refs – I was in high school and Jerry Sauder was reffing my games.”

At that point, Vandewarker had to step away and start the pregame clock for varsity warm-ups. But when he came back, he had an idea of how long he may remain at the center of Brown City athletics.

“I always said as long as Tony and Cindy (Burton, Brown City’s assistant AD) were around,” he said. “But I don’t know. I’ll probably go for another 10-15, put a good 50 in. I think I got that in me, still.”

Paul Costanzo served as a sportswriter at The Port Huron Times Herald from 2006-15, including three years as lead sportswriter, and prior to that as sports editor at the Hillsdale Daily News from 2005-06. He can be reached at paulcostanzo3@gmail.com with story ideas for Genesee, Lapeer, St. Clair, Sanilac, Huron, Tuscola, Saginaw, Bay, Arenac, Midland and Gladwin counties.

Keep Up When You Work Down

You’re at work Thursday morning an anticipating a relaxing afternoon and evening at home. Tomorrow, you’re the white hat for a big varsity game between Central and Northside and you’re looking forward to spending Friday night with your crew.

Around noon, you get a text from your assigner; he needs coverage on a middle-school game this afternoon at 3:30, can you help him out?

Fortunately, your late afternoon schedule is clear and you say, “Yes.” In theory, it should be an easy assignment. You’ve been officiating 21 years and have a full varsity schedule. Working a middle-school game should be a piece of cake. And it likely will be.

But, taking the assignment for granted is opening the door to potential problems. What follows are some steps to take that might help you avoid them.

The players deserve your best — To you, this game may not be a big deal, but it certainly is to the players. You owe the junior varsity, freshman, or middle-school athlete the same effort and focus you’d provide in a varsity game. That means showing up on time, conducting a good pregame conference (time permitting) and hustling from start to finish.

You may be working with a newbie — You likely will be working with a lessexperienced partner or partners. Your experience can benefit them if you go about things the right way.

Unless they’re a totally raw novice, let a younger partner serve as the referee, the crew chief, work the plate, etc. If you’re someone who is well known in your association or your area, your partners may be a bit intimidated about working with you and may feel like they’re walking on eggshells.

Do whatever is necessary to put them at ease. Don’t big-time them by talking about all the big games you’ve worked (unless they ask). Don’t hesitate to tell a story against yourself; about a mistake you’ve made. That will get the point across that everyone makes mistakes. More to the point, doing so will put your less-experienced partners at ease which in theory will have them more relaxed when the game begins.

Support your partner(s) — This goes beyond backing them up if they’re involved in a controversial play, although that’s important. It also means letting them officiate. Resist the temptation to make a call out of your area or overturn a call your partner made because ‘It’s the right call.’ It’s important to be there for your partner and that includes letting them call their game.

The best I ever worked with in this regard was a longtime football and basketball official in our area, now deceased who, among other things, excelled at working with young officials. He would give you enough space to make your own way. If you made a judgment mostake he wouldn’t step in to overrule your call because he believed that would undermine a younger partner’s credibility. But he would never let you get into serious trouble and was always supportive.

Not coincidentally, he was a teacher in his day job.

Be willing to look at things differently — If you’re moving down to a lower level for a day you’ll likely have to remind yourself to view some plays and situations differently than you normally would.

If you’re working a freshman baseball game as opposed to varsity contest and find yourself on the plate (see above) you may have to establish a different strike zone than you normally would because of the ages and experience level of the players, particularly the pitchers. If you’re working basketball, you might take a different approach to what is incidental contact as opposed to a foul.

But safety comes first — Regardless of the sport or the level your working, never compromise on safety standards. While there are certain infractions you might pass on in a middle school game as opposed to a varsity game, safety protocols must not be compromised. An illegal block in football, particularly one the opponent doesn’t see coming, is a foul whether the players are 13 or 17.

An offense that would result in a high-school soccer player being booked should likely have the same result at a lower level.

And on semi-related topic, profane or abusive language directed at an opponent or an official should never be tolerated, whatever the age or experience level of the athletes.

Postgame — If time allows, make time for a postgame review with your partner(s). Assuming they’re open to feedback, this is a good opportunity to provide it.

Be sure to begin the discussion by talking about what they did well before offering any criticism. Give them something they can build on, something that will enhance their developmental officials.

Final thoughts — Some officials spend their entire careers moving from one level to another for a variety of reasons. Others, once they establish themselves at a certain level, ‘move down’ only rarely and indeed some hesitate to do so.

Those who do work multiple levels when requested are serving the industry and sharing their skills, knowledge, and experience with those coming after them.

quick tip

Video helps you get a reality check on your appearance. Don’t use the excuse the camera adds 10 pounds, either. The way you look on video is how you look to coaches, players and fans. Cast a critical eye toward what you see. Do you run like an athlete? Does your walk express confidence? Do you look angry when making a call? If you come across negatively on select plays or if it’s hard to watch yourself because of your appearance, work to improve. Get to the point where you look so good on film, Hollywood may come calling.

FOR THE RECORD

Winter Sports Championship Officials

The following officials worked Winter state tournaments for the MHSAA. We want to take a quick moment to recognize and thank the officials assigned to those contests. Your efforts are appreciated, and we understand that without your commitment and sacrifices, we could not host such tremendous events for our member schools and student-athletes. Congratulations.

GIRLS BASKETBALL FINALS

Jerry Armstrong, Lansing

Thomas Barnikow, Bay City

Nichole Dowdall, Davison Cozette Ealy, Detroit

Willie Godfrey Jr., Jackson

Thomas Habitz Jr., Hamtramck

Barry James, Marquette Arnulfo Perez, Grand Rapids

Randy Reese, Stanton

Peter VanGessel, Grandville

Darryl Wehner, Harbor Beach

Lowell Winne Jr., Fennville

BOYS BASKETBALL FINALS

Aaron Boersma, East Grand Rapids

Dustin Crawford, Mt. Pleasant

Quincy Jones, Detroit

Kevin Klein, Ferndale

Curt Lowe, Brown City

Rollie Madison II, Spring

Lake

Michael Maisner, Okemos

Steve Nordstrom, Atlantic

Mine

Demetrius Owens, Ypsilanti

Calvin Sanders, Lansing

Daniel Stahr, Kalamazoo

Derrick Washington, Saginaw

ICE HOCKEY FINALS

Keith Jungquist, Canton

Bradley Kihn, Elmira

Michael King, Grand Rapids

Andrew Krey, Greenville

Ken Lauer, Livonia

Darrin Oliver, Middleville

Greg Pattinson, Toledo

Adam Richards, Grand Rapids

Marty Shaffer, Big Rapids

Bryan Smolinski, Bloomfield twp

Jacob Tolfree, Traverse City

Chad Wilson, Williamsburg

WRESTLING INDIVIDUAL FINALS

John D Andrews, Union Lake

Tom Arsenault, Dearborn

Cassandra Baranoski, Belmont

Tom Baranoski, Comstock Park

Alan Berget, Buchannan

Jim Berry, Melvindale

Louis Berry III, Munising

Jamie Betts, Farwell

Trenton Braman, Alma

Rob Braman, Sheridan

Pericles Chiatalas, Plymouth

Patrick Conroy, Mendon

Lon Cook, Roscommon

Chad Davinich, Warren

Kendall Domeier, Dorr

John Ebenhoeh, Chesaning

James Gourlay, Lapeer

David Hall, Farmington Hills

Bobby Hearn, Novi

Eric Hebestreit, Garden City

Ed Hedgecock, Caledonia

Gary Kowalewski, St. Clair Shores

Lywood Leightner, Cheboygan

Stephen Livings, Roseville

Faisal Munassar, Melvindale

Kyle Nesbit, Owosso

Matthew Newcomb, Davison

Kyle Nixon, Sparta

Murray Rose, Zeeland

Jerrid Schalk, Warren

Eric Seifert, Bloomfield Hills

Jarrett Skorup, Midland

Matthew Stabley, Macomb

Stacey Swiatlowski, Ludington

Justin Van Rheenan, Traverse City

Steve Vecchioni, Grosse Ile

Erin Windemuller, Walker

David Witgen, Bruce Twp

Pat Wollet, Hudson

Joseph Yuhas, Tecumseh

WRESTLING TEAM FINALS

Trent Anderson, Kalamazoo

Tyler Dotson, Hudsonville

Edmundo Flores, Shelby

Drew Lesko, Tecumseh

Ronald Nagy, Hazel Park

Scott Strickler, Lapeer

Joseph Whitman, Davison

Joseph Williams, Pierson

GYMNASTICS FINALS

Lindsey Akers, Dewitt

Amy Bessler, Madison Heights

Brenda Betz, Adrian

Kara Burns, Plymouth

Karen Dugan, Portland

Melissa Flores, Brighton

Kelly Gallagher, Okemos

Doris Goodlock, Adrian

Dawn Hart, Ada

Deborah Heck, Highland

Tara Holmes, Waterford

Michelle Kozak, Grand Rapids

Kristin Lilly, Lansing

Megan Lott, Haslett

Sandra Noto, Wyoming

Amanda Pfaller, Lowell

Linda Schmidt, Zeeland

Kimberly Tobin, Rochester Hills

Judith Walter-Kohn, Adrian

Katherine Williams, Farmington Hills

Trisha Wilson, Onondaga

COMPETITIVE CHEER FINALS

Jennifer Allen, Harrison

Twp

Amy Braun, South Lyon

Melanie Briggs, Flint

Juli Brown, Fenton

Noelle Cole, Metamora

Ryan Collins, Romeo

Candace Cox, Quincy

April Davenport, Mattawan

Diana Dildine, Grand Rapids

Amy Gardner, Houghton

Lake

Mary Gavitt, Grand Ledge

Barbara Gemellaro, Rochester

KC Gimmey, St. Johns

Dee Hammond, Lansing

Melissa Harrison-Hodges, Bridgman

Amanda Hartledge, Clarkston

April Hooker, Battle Creek

Pamela Ingles, Greenville

Tara Jones, Kentwood

Monte’ Keen, Swartz Creek

Karla Koviak, Paw Paw

Jaime Loch, Rochester

Paula McAllister, Fenton

Jane Plaisted, Grand Rapids

Kelli Polinskey, Grandville

Mary Post, Walker

Terri Richards, Comstock Park

Janis Stahr, Flat Rock

Michelle Turpin, Shepherd

Cynthia Tyzo, West Bloomfield

Stephanie Unger, Royal Oak

Cheri VanConant, Rochester

BOYS SWIM AND DIVE FINALS

Kenneth Bertin, West Bloomfield

Dennis Betts, Livonia

James Chapman, Pinckney

Jack Coffey, Ann Arbor

John DuBois, Kalamazoo

Tim Eastman, Kalamazoo

Brian Foust, Brighton

Jim Hartwell, DexterJerry

Kelley, Ypsilanti

Dana Kirk, Dimondale

Dave Nykanen, Farmington Hills

Donna Prieskorn, Gregory

Thomas Richards, Ann Arbor

John Robertson, Holland

Steve Smale, Kentwood

Maynard Timm, Bloomfield

Hills

Daniel Torriglia, Royal Oak

David Weick, Hudsonville

THE GAG RULE

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

SNAP SHOT

HELPING PEOPLE IS AN EASY CALL

MLB umpires (from left) Dan Bellino, Crystal Lake, Ill.; Shane Livensparger, Jacksonville, Fla.; Phil Cuzzi, Nutley, N.J.; and Mark Ripperger, Escondido, Calif., show 4-year-old Theo the proper way to make an out call on Aug. 23, 2023, during a visit to St. Louis Children’s Hospital. The visit was part of the UMPS CARE Charities Blue for Kids Hospital program.

THEY GET IT

“I am proud of our officials. I think they do an extraordinary job. They get it right and they’re still criticized. They are the hardest-working people I see. They take great pride in it. I am very proud of what they do.”

–NFL commissioner Roger Goodell during a chat with Mike Tirico on Jan. 18 in Detroit

SURVEY SAYS

What is the importance of each of the following qualities in order to be a successful official?

SAY WHAT?

“Can’t play the Bills and the refs.”

— Wide receiver George Pickens after the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Wild-Card round loss to the Buffalo Bills, 31-17, on Jan. 15

THEY ALSO GET IT

“I’ve never understood why anyone would want to be a referee. But I didn’t know the job. Now I do. I now understand why someone would want to be a referee.”

–Suzanne Wrack, writing for the British newspaper The Guardian, after spending a day at the Professional Game Match Officials Limited training camps

THEY SAID IT

“Rightfully so, (Shane Livensparger) ejected me. The game has to continue and I’m interrupting the game. Actually, he was excellent. He handled it as professionally as he could. I, in that instance, let the emotions get the better of me.”

–Six-time MLB all-star Joey Votto, following his ejection from the final game of 2023

– Six-time MLB

THE NEWS

WIAA, WOA Launch Test of Body Cameras

RENTON, Wash. — The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) and the Washington Officials Association (WOA), in partnership with Reveal Media, have begun an experimental initiative wherein high school sports officials wear body cameras during sanctioned contests. It is the first known program of its kind and scale in the United States and could have a lasting impact on how state associations and governing bodies go about their work.

cams was a little extreme, but after vetting the product and the early results from the UK trial, the body cams seemed like the out-of-the-box idea we were looking for.”

While the implementation of the body camera plan took about a year to complete for Washington high school sporting events, the new program initiative began in practice at the start of the 2024 calendar year.

California Soccer Boycott Continues

Still in search of better pay, high school soccer officials in Southern California continued to boycott their assignments several months into the 2023-24 boys’ and girls’ soccer seasons. Officials began turning down assignments as soon as the season started on Nov. 13.

“The WIAA is proud to be the first state taking on this trial in the U.S.,” WIAA Assistant Executive Director Justin Kesterson said. “While it is unfortunate that we have to explore these options, we appreciate our partnership with the WOA and Reveal Media to address the behavior and sportsmanship issues that have grown increasingly too common in today’s culture.”

WOA Executive Director Todd Stordahl added, “With recent survey results showing that sportsmanship is not getting better and officials not feeling safe at contests, we felt it was time to find a new approach to the problem. Initially, the thought of body

THE WIRE

Former Umpires

Elected to College HOF

Former college baseball umpires Tony Thompson and C.J. Mitchell were inducted into the College Baseball Hall of Fame in February. A longtime NCAA Division I umpire, Thompson umpired the Men’s College World Series and 11 Regionals as well as 15 SEC, 10 ACC and one Sun Belt Conference tournament.

“The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association and Reveal Media have been great partners throughout the process, leading to us being able to activate close to 100 cameras for the second half of our basketball season,” Stordahl said. “Once completed, we will move the cameras to baseball, fastpitch (softball) and boys’ soccer during the spring season.”

Beginning with basketball games in January, nearly 100 officials across the state of Washington equipped with the technology were instructed to activate the devices according to the following triggers: unsportsmanlike technical foul, an event that creates an unsafe or dangerous environment for officials, or discriminatory or harassing behavior that causes a stoppage in play or delays play from resuming.

“It is still too early to measure any true data from the program, See “Body Cameras” p.15

Thompson remains active in several conference administrative positions. Mitchell was the first Black college umpire in the Pac-8 (now Pac-12) Conference. He worked four NCAA D-I World Series (1976, 1977, 1980 and 1981), six NCAA Regionals, 10 NAIA World Series and six American Legion World Series. He also worked 12 years of professional ball in the Class A Northwest League.

Referee Dies During Basketball Game

In January, Unit I of the Southern California Soccer Officials Association (SCSOA), which serves schools from Goleta to Calabasas, voted to continue its season-long boycott through the end of the season, according to the Ventura County Star

“We voted to continue the boycott through the year,” SCSOA Unit I Secretary Michael Harrison said. “Through the playoffs, through regionals, through everything.” Some SCSOA units began the season boycotting but have since returned their officials to action because leagues used “donations” to bridge the gap between the fee structure outlined by the Southern Section and the demands of the referee units, according to Harrison.

Officials had threatened a work stoppage for over a year after the CIF-Southern Section approved a new fee structure in January 2022. The new structure

See “Boycott” p.14

A referee died Feb. 2 during a JV basketball game in Westmoreland County, Pa. Michael Roebuck, 45, collapsed on the court before the second half of a game between Yough and Mount Pleasant high schools. Crews took him to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The second half of the game was canceled

while the varsity game afterward was postponed. “Despite the immediate medical attention and efforts of our first responders, Mr. Roebuck tragically passed away due to the severity of the emergency,” a statement from the Mount Pleasant Area School District read. “Our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies are with Mr. Roebuck’s family and friends.”

N.J. Officials Cleared of Bias in Hair Matter

ROBBINSVILLE, N.J. — High school basketball officials in New Jersey, who had been accused by Columbia High School of bias and violating the state’s hair discrimination laws for enforcing rules requiring a player wearing beads to securely fasten them to her head during a Jan. 4 game, were exonerated following an investigation by the state’s governing body for high school athletics.

The New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) found the referees acted without any bias intent and “the evidence shows that they acted in accordance with the rules.” The NJSIAA also determined coaches from the opposing team, who had pointed out to the referees the beads were being worn by a Columbia player in violation of the rules, also acted without any bias intent.

In the eight-page report released three weeks after the game, the NJSIAA noted the player had been allowed to play with “noncompliant” unsecured beads in a JV game immediately prior to the varsity game. Caldwell High School coaches did not interrupt that game to address the matter with officials, but brought the matter to their attention during warmups before the varsity game.

Game officials informed the Columbia High School team of the

THE WIRE

Referee Dies

During Tournament

A referee died Jan. 7 during a wrestling tournament at Arvada West High School in Colorado after unsuccessful attempts by first responders to save his life. Gerrard Flores, 55, was transported to an ambulance after a medical emergency but died at the scene. The tournament was canceled after his death. Flores was described as a “widely

rules matter and the player securely fastened the beads during the first quarter. She was able to participate in the game afterwards, the report stated.

A few days after the game, Columbia High School officials filed a bias complaint, alleging a violation of the CROWN act, a 2019 law enacted in the wake of a hair-related rules controversy in a high school wrestling match. Media reports surrounding the complaint misstated the player was prohibited from playing the game simply because she was wearing beads.

“The record’s clear — the player participated in two games without the removal of hair adornments; claims to the contrary are inaccurate,” NJSIAA Executive Director Colleen MacGuire said in a statement to the media. “The style of hair was never challenged by officials or coaches. Braids are permitted as per the rules. Further, NFHS rules allow for hair adornments … as long as those items are securely fastened to the head so they won’t pose an increased risk to the player, teammates or opponents. NFHS rulesmakers have taken steps to promote a respectful, open environment, while also creating as safe a competitive environment as possible.”

SOURCES: NJ EDUCATION REPORT, NJ.COM

known, well-loved” member of the wrestling community. “He was just that guy,” said Brian Talmich, a fellow referee and close friend of Flores. “He could make you smile on a day where there was no room to smile. He could light up a room when there was no light.”

Rugby Union Gets Tough on Abuse

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) in England introduced

Boycott continued from p.12

essentially broke down game fees into hourly wages, leading to significant raises for officials in some sports, such as baseball, basketball, football and softball. However, soccer officials — previously the highest-earning officials — received a raise of a single cent from the new structure.

“The committee wanted to get things equitable for (all officials) across the board, so we looked at the hourly expectations,” CIFSouthern Section Commissioner Mike West told SBLive.com in December. “We looked at each sport and identified the expectation for how much time officials need to be on campus for their sport … the goal is to get all head officials, at least, to a $35 per hour rate. Some sports were already there, including aquatics and soccer. Those officials did not get a bump (in pay). But we saw the other sports (officials) get raises.”

The CIF-Southern Section says the rate was agreed upon by referees through the 2023-25 fee cycle and cannot be changed or negotiated until the next cycle due to the section’s bylaws. As a result, the boycott could also threaten the 2024-25 soccer season.

SOURCES: SBLIVE.COM, VENTURA COUNTY STAR

“aggravated sanctions” this year to clamp down on referee abuse by players and coaches. Length of suspensions were increased by two weeks for low-end match official abuse offenses, three weeks for mid-range offenses and four weeks for top-end

offenses. The RFU defines match official abuse as disrespecting the authority of a match official (dissent), verbal abuse, using threatening actions or words toward match officials, making physical contact with match officials and physical abuse of a match official. The RFU said most cases involve disrespect and incidents of physical abuse are rare, but the level of abuse was unacceptable.

PSRA, PRO Reach Tentative Agreement

CHESTERFIELD, Va. — The Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA), the union for the officials employed by the Professional Referee Organization (PRO) who work MLS, NWSL, USL and MLS NextPro matches, announced Feb. 14 a tentative agreement had been reached on a new collective bargaining agreement.

Details of the tentative agreement were not made public. PSRA members regularly working in MLS were slated to vote on the agreement Feb. 15 and 16. At press time, the results were pending.

In an open letter on the PSRA website dated Feb. 14, the PSRA executive committee said “PRO/ MLS have communicated to the membership that this is their ‘best offer.’ … With each CBA

Body Cameras

continued from p.8

but the WIAA and WOA have been encouraged by the lack of ejections in games where cameras have been used,” Kesterson said. “When the cameras have been activated, we have been able to collect really useful videos that can be used for training officials on how to deescalate situations or handle tough situations that may occur during a contest.”

Coaches and players are reminded about the body camera initiative

Off-Duty First Responders Assist Referee

Two off-duty medical professionals were in the right place at the right time Jan. 19 while attending a high school basketball game in Jenison, Mich. During a matchup between Jenison and Grand Haven high schools, a player accidentally ran into referee Joe Popiel, causing the official to fall on his head and temporarily lose

negotiation, we aim to improve the professionalism, standards, travel, and other working conditions so you can truly look at professional refereeing as your career upon your selection to MLS in the future. We encounter roadblocks from every organization along the way, but the progress we are able to make is real, tangible, and improves every aspect of your officiating career. These leagues and organizations will not make these positive changes for us on their own — we all know this.”

PSRA members unanimously voted Jan. 22 to strike if a collective

during pregame conferences with officials. The encrypted video footage is only available to WIAA and WOA staff representatives.

The technology behind the initiative is provided by a partnership between the WIAA, WOA and Reveal Media, a global market leader in body-worn cameras and digital evidence management based in the UK and serving organizations in more than 40 countries worldwide. The company was founded in 2002 and has articulated its primary goals for the innovative technology as front-facing

consciousness. Grand Haven Township Fire/Rescue Chief Shawn Schrader, along with a physician’s assistant, rushed onto the court to assist Popiel until an ambulance arrived. Popiel suffered a “laceration to his head,” to which Schrader, the physician’s assistant and several athletic trainers attended.

“I’m doing fine, I’m very fortunate to have the people

bargaining agreement was not reached for MLS officials. PSRA also filed an unfair labor practice charge against PRO, alleging PRO contacted union members directly.

The last agreement for MLS officials, which was ratified in February 2019, expired Jan. 15, but was extended by member vote to Jan. 31 to let officials attend the preseason training camp and fitness testing. Some of the items being negotiated and addressed for the new agreement include compensation and benefits, scheduling, training camps and travel.

In earlier letters posted to the PSRA website, the executive board asked for support and encouraged officials not to serve as replacement referees during any potential strike or lockout.

screen deterrence, transparent and unbiased footage capturing, safe and secure encryption, and video footage for training and development.

According to the WIAA and WOA, staff from both organizations will evaluate the body cam initiative through a joint effort during the trial period and a full review of the program at the conclusion of the 202324 school year.

“We’re excited to compile the data at the end of the season and school year to measure the results of this trial,” Kesterson said.

that helped me out,” said Popiel, a 50-year official. “We’re on the mend, I guess. It could have been a lot worse.”

Mills, Past Wimbledon Tournament Dirctor, Dies

Alan Mills, who was the longtime Wimbledon tournament referee, died Jan. 18 at the age of 88. He served as All-England Club’s referee from 1983 to 2005. While Mills didn’t occupy

the umpire’s chair, he oversaw the referees and made the call to suspend play due to weather — a role which earned him the nickname “Rain Man.” Retired tennis referee Richard Ings said Mills was “a man of integrity and dignity. He was the epitome of English common sense on the world’s tennis courts.”

SOURCES: 9NEWS.COM, ARVADA PRESS, BBC SPORT, ESPN, GRAND HAVEN TRIBUNE, THE GUARDIAN, MLB.COM, THE U.S. SUN, WBALTV.COM

UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE ...

Make Yours the Best Crew You Ever Knew

By Brad Tittrington

In every ballgame, there are three teams involved — the home team, the away team and the umpiring team. It has become tradition on most crews I work on that the last thing we say to each other as we give a fist bump and head to our position is, “Let’s be the best team on the field.” This reinforces we are working together as a team and we are one as we start each contest. It is important for umpires to understand we must work together from the first pitch to the last and take care of each other in order to be successful.

Pregame

It is important to understand teamwork begins even before we take the field, often days before. The crew chief should set the tone for the crew and practice good leadership by reaching out to the crew to confirm the date and time of the game. For higher-level contests involving travel and hotel reservations, the crew chief should reach out well in advance. For lower-level contests, a couple of days ahead of time should suffice to make sure everyone is confirmed to work the game, all the details of the game are correct and to agree on the uniform to wear for the contest.

It may seem minor, but a simple text message or an email with the crew begins building rapport and allows you to stay in contact up until arrival on site. There may be members of the crew who have never been to a particular site or worked with you before. Reaching out and providing details about where to park, where the field is located, how to contact the crew chief in case of issues, etc., goes a long way in easing some concerns. It can help reduce some anxiety if members are not familiar with each other or the location of the game.

Once onsite, the crew chief should lead an extensive pregame

Umpires must work together and be on the same page in order to have success on the field. This starts from the pregame meeting as the crew chief leads the team through discussion. Here, from left, Jeffrey Schoettle, Lansing, Ill., leads the pregame discussion with Gareth Gilson, Victoria, B.C.; Chris Parks, Inverness, Fla.; Nicolas Davids, Los Lunas, N.M.; Vincent Yale, Colora, Md.; and John Joerger, Portland, Ore., before the crew takes the field at the Junior League Softball World Series.

DALE GAVEY

conversation to build rapport with the crew and make sure everyone is on the same page. Sometimes, this is not possible at lower-level games as umpires are traveling straight from work, there is no secure locker room available or you are working multiple games at a tournament. However, crews should never blindly walk on to the field minutes before the first pitch without discussing at least some basics to make sure everyone is on the same page.

Walk the Field

Umpires should take the time to walk the field together prior to the game. If working a series or tournament, this can be done before the first game. This allows all umpires the opportunity to be on the same page when it comes to ground rules and it also is the first time to show a united front as a crew. Even if you have been to a field multiple times before, it is wise to walk the field to see any potential problem areas that may have risen since the last time you worked that particular location. It is better to be over-prepared than under-prepared when it comes to ground rules.

Protect Each Other

As a crew, it is your responsibility to protect each member of the crew. Coaches will look for ways to divide the crew to try to gain an advantage. Just like a court of law, anything you say and do will be used against you. It is wise to say as little as possible as silence cannot be misquoted. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t answer questions when a coach asks. It does mean you should not try to speak for one of your partner’s calls or get into a game of he said, she said with a coach. Coaches will often approach one member of the crew and say a partner said something. Some of what a coach tells you may be half-truths, may be completely spun, or may be a flat-out lie. Never throw your partners under the bus in those situations as once a coach has driven a wedge in the crew, your trust and credibility are out the window and you can’t get it back. Even if you think your partner missed the call, don’t allow your

voice or body language to show that. You can always discuss positioning, judgment, etc., in the locker room after the game, but in the moment, protect your partner.

Likewise, if a coach is coming to you to complain about a partner, stick up for him or her. Never allow a coach to badmouth a partner. You wouldn’t want a partner to allow a coach to rail about you. If a coach is able to drive a wedge between you and your partners, it will make for a very long day (or weekend) on the field and will be a problem you constantly have to battle. If you shut it down early and protect each other, it will make for a much smoother game or series.

Stay united, protect each other and work together as a cohesive unit. Remember, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. A team is not effective if one member is doing one thing and another is trying to do something completely opposite. Everyone must be working together in harmony in order to have success. If everyone is doing their own thing and there is no crew harmony, the odds of having a successful day or weekend on the diamond are slim to none. Even if the crew gets every call right, the members are going to walk off the field less than enthusiastically about the experience. The only thing you may be excited about is that it is over. And that is not a pleasant feeling.

Postgame “Victory”

While the umpiring crew never wins or loses a game, it can celebrate after a job well done. As a crew, you know when you have nailed a game. Take time to give each other a fist bump in the locker room after a game in which you worked cohesively as a team. Remember, we are the only friends we have out there and it is important to build each other up. Take time during the postgame to talk about the things done well during the game. We are beaten up enough over the course of the season; we need to take time to reflect on the things we do well. Brad Tittrington is an associate editor for Referee. He umpires D-I softball and officiates women’s college and high school basketball, college and high school volleyball and high school football. 

QUICKTIP

Decisiveness leads to credibility and believability in your calls. But potentially more important, it leads to trust with your partners. When it comes to deciding whether or not to chase, make a decision and stick to it. Indecisiveness potentially leads to missed calls and missed rotations. If you start to chase, continue. If you waffle, it causes your partners to try to guess where they should go. This should not be confused with deciding to chase a ball late when conditions dictate to do so.

THEY SAID IT

“We are expected to be ready for the first pitch. We are held to the same standards in February as we are in June. Umpire every game like it’s June and a championship is on the line.”

— Cody Little, NCAA softball director of training and review, on being prepared for the first game of the season.

SOURCE: EXTRA INNING INSIGHTS #4 ON THE CENTRAL HUB

TOOLS

Ready Ref Timer

Are you a college softball umpire? If so, with the new rule changes this season, you will need a reliable timer to take onto the field with you in order to accurately keep time between pitches. The new Ready Ref Model 1145 timer is one tool to help you achieve this and it allows you to track the time between innings as well. It comes equipped with a 20- and 90-second interval timer and comes with a rain case as well to protect it during games in foul weather. The system sells for $79 and can be found at ready-ref. com.

Each of the following includes a situation and possible answer(s). Decide which are correct for USA, NFHS, NCAA or USSSA rules and which might vary. Solutions: p. 85

1. Which of the following is true in regard to the infield fly rule?

a. The infield fly rule should never be declared when an outfielder settles under the ball.

b. The infield fly rule should never be declared when an infielder retreats to the outfield to settle under the ball.

c. Runners may legally tag up and advance on a declared infield fly after the caught fly ball is touched by a fielder.

d. When an infield fly is declared, if no fielder touches the ball, the infield fly is rescinded and the batterrunner and all runners may advance with liability to be put out.

e. If an infield fly is declared, the batter is automatically out, even if the fly ball ends up being an uncaught foul ball.

2. The pitcher begins with her pivot foot in contact with the pitcher’s plate and her stride/non-pivot foot slightly behind the pitcher’s plate. After taking the signal from the catcher, she brings her hands together in front of her body to start the pitch and takes a small step backward with her stride/non-pivot foot.

a. Legal. The pitcher may take a step back with the stride/non-pivot foot provided the step is taken before the hands separate.

b. Illegal. The stride foot, once set, may not be moved in any direction other than the initial step toward home plate as she delivers the pitch.

3. A pitcher may use a white-colored glove while in the pitching position if using an optic-yellow ball.

a. True.

b. False.

4. With one out and R1 on first, B3 hits a ground ball up the middle. F6 dives, secures the ball and throws to first base to try to get B3 on the force out. The ball sails over the first baseman’s glove and into the dugout. At the time of release, R1 was on second base and B3 was about five feet from first base.

a. R1 is awarded third base and B3 is awarded second base.

b. R1 is awarded home and B3 is awarded second base.

c. R1 is awarded second base and B3 is awarded first base.

d. R1 is awarded home and B3 is awarded third base.

NCAA Adopts New Signals for 2024

The NCAA has adopted two new signals for the 2024 season, which are in addition to the newly adopted signals highlighted in the 2024 CCA manual. Both signals coincide with the new “action clock” rule the NCAA adopted for this season, which mandates pitchers must separate their hands and deliver a pitch within 20 seconds after receiving the ball from the catcher or after the umpire calls, “Play.”

The first signal, as shown in PlayPic A, deals with base umpires signaling a time-between-pitches violation. Initially, only the plate umpire signaling the violation was adopted. However, as the rule and its interpretations were further developed, it became necessary to create a signal for base umpires. Some conferences are mandating the action clock be visible on the scoreboard, which the plate umpire would be able to see to enforce. However, not all conferences are mandating this requirement. In instances where there is not a visual clock on the

scoreboard, the base umpires will be responsible for keeping the time. There will also be contests where the action clock is behind the plate umpire, and it will be the responsibility of the base umpires to enforce the time-between-innings rule in those games as well. For those contests, it was important to create a signal where the base umpires are the ones enforcing the rule violation.

The second signal, as shown in PlayPic B, gives plate umpires an additional way to put the ball back into play and begin the action clock. In the past, the point signal was the only signal available to plate umpires to start the time-betweenpitches countdown (over the past several seasons, pitchers had up to 25 seconds to deliver the pitch, broken up in three phases). With the new “action clock” rules, umpires now can either point, as in the past, or beckon with an open palm. This gives plate umpires an optional signal so they are not constantly pointing at pitchers to begin the action clock.

THE NEW SOFTBALL UMPIRES MANUAL

MORE PAGES

MORE MECHANICS

MORE INSTRUCTION

The official NFHS softball umpires manual produced by the editors of Referee! Loaded with dozens of mechanics scenarios and featuring Referee’s exclusive PlayPic® and MechaniGram® graphics, this new resource is a must have for high school softball umpires. Mechanics are broken down into one, two, and three-umpire systems as well as providing detailed coverage for all situations.

YOU’VE NEVER SEEN AN UMPIRES MANUAL LIKE THIS ONE!

CASEPLAYS

Unreported Substitute

Play: With R1 on first base, R3 on third base and one out, B4 hits a ground ball to the shortstop. F6 fields the ball and tosses it to F4 for the force out at second. R3 comes across the plate to score and the batter-runner ends up on first. The defensive coach then approaches the plate umpire and states the batter-runner was an unreported substitute. The plate umpire looks at the lineup card and discovers the batter-runner was never reported in the game by the offensive coach. Ruling: In NFHS, the batter-runner is now officially in the game, play stands and a team warning is given to the head coach. The next violation would result in the player and head coach being restricted to the dugout for the remainder of the game (3-3-4, 3-6-7 Pen.). In NCAA, the batterrunner is officially in the game and ruled out, R3 is returned to third base and R1 is returned to first base (8.3.3.3.2 Eff.). In USA Softball, the batter-runner is officially in the game and ruled out, the force out at second stands and R3 is returned to third base (4-6C-3 Eff.). In USSSA, a team warning is issued, all play stands and the batter-runner is officially in the game. For the next violation, the head coach is ejected for the remainder of the game (5-5 Pen.).

Fan Interference

Play: In the bottom of the seventh inning with the visiting team ahead, 3-0, the home team has bases loaded with two outs. B6 hits a long fly ball to left field. F7 goes back to the fence and tries to make a catch on the ball. The ball is completely over the fence and, as F7 jumps and reaches back to try to make the catch, a fan catches the ball in the stands. Ruling: Home run in all codes and the home team wins the game, 4-3. The fielder is only protected if a spectator reaches into the field of play and interferes with an opportunity to make a play. Once a fielder reaches into dead-ball territory to make a play, she is not protected (NFHS 8-2-12; NCAA 6.9.4 Exc.; USA Softball 8-2O; USSSA 8-14E-1 Exc.).

Injury Inquiry

Because of the speed of the game and the nature of the sport, injuries occur quite often. While most of the injuries are minor in nature, there are times when more serious issues arise. Do you know what to do when these situations occur?

The rules codes differ somewhat in both the handling of the initial injury as well as what can happen with the lineup in the aftermath of the injury. And while the codes differ, the most important thing to remember is player safety when trying to figure out what to do in real time.

First, let’s take a look at what to do when an injury occurs during the game. All codes have similar wording on what umpires should do in the case of player injury. In most cases, the umpires will keep the ball live until no further advancement by runners or a putout is possible. However, if necessary, umpires may suspend play immediately if in the umpire’s judgment, further play may cause injury or jeopardize a participant’s safety (NFHS 5-2-1d; NCAA 6.11.3.3; USA Softball 4-10, 10-4E; USSSA 5-9a). In situations where there is a serious injury and the umpires are forced to suspend play, the umpires will award runners the bases they would have attained had the injury not occurred. Again, player safety trumps everything else in these situations. If unsure if an injury is severe, err on the side of caution, especially if it is a lowerlevel game or any type of injury to the head or neck area.

One thing to remember, umpires should never attempt to move or render aid to an injured player. Allow coaches and trained medical staff to attend to the injured player. In situations where the injury appears minor and a coach comes out to check on the player, an umpire should stay in the general area to make sure the coach is only checking on the wellbeing of the player and not using the time to relay coaching information. This is especially important if the injury is to a pitcher or a catcher.

Speaking of injuries to pitchers, what should umpires do if a pitcher is injured during a play? First, allow the coach and/or medical staff to check on the pitcher. Next, allow the pitcher warmup pitches to make sure the pitcher can continue in the game. There is no set limit on the amount of warmup pitches the pitcher can throw. Umpires should use their best judgment to determine the amount of pitches to allow. Again, err on the side of caution and don’t rush an injured pitcher back into game action. If the pitcher is unable to continue, a relief pitcher is allowed as much time as necessary to replace the injured pitcher, meaning there is no set limit on the number of warmup pitches the relief pitcher receives (NFHS 6-2-5 Note 2; NCAA 10.19.3.2; USA Softball 6A-9 Eff.; USSSA 6-1L Exc.). Umpires should also allow a pitcher to throw warmup pitches if another player is injured and there is a significant delay to restarting the game.

Warmup pitches should also be allowed if a catcher is injured during play, under some circumstances. If a catcher’s glove hand, wrist or arm is injured, umpires should allow the catcher to receive warmup pitches to make sure she can safely catch the ball. If the injury is to the throwing hand, umpires should allow the catcher to play catch, but not allow warmup pitches.

One area that sometimes leads to disagreement is if a catcher is injured and must be removed from the game and a new catcher is inserted. In this instance, it would behoove the umpire to allow the new catcher the ability to catch warmup pitches. This is a safety issue for both the new catcher as well as the umpire. The last thing an umpire needs is a replacement catcher to get behind the plate without receiving any warmup pitches. Remember, the catcher is the last line of defense and any reasonable umpire wants to make sure the person receiving the ball is ready and able to do so.

change

Everything you need to know about the new rules regarding pitchers’ feet. This guide breaks down what is legal and illegal, and outlines everything you need to know to take the field in 2024. Illustrations with Referee’s exclusive MechaniGrams® make for easy comprehension. This handy guide can be kept in your gym bag for easy access.

One area of the rules often misinterpreted is what to do with a player who is injured while running the bases. The answer is, it depends on what happened during the play.

First, let’s assume the player was injured by their own volition and not because of an act of obstruction. That is a different article for a different day. If a runner is injured between bases and the ball is still live, the ball remains live and the runner is liable to being put out. If the runner is injured and the ball is out of play, all codes allow a substitute to come into the game for the injured runner and finish any base awards. The substitute must touch all bases not touched by the injured runner. For example, a runner slides into third base, is injured and unable to continue, and the ball is thrown out of play in an attempt to retire the injured runner. A substitute may

come into the game and continue to advance to the plate to score the run, since the runner would have been awarded home on the overthrow.

In recent years, there have been multiple instances where a batterrunner has torn an ACL while running the bases after hitting the ball over the fence. While it makes for a feel-good story to see the defense pick up the batter-runner and have the batter-runner touch each base and then home plate, this is unnecessary by the rules. A substitute or temporary runner (NFHS) can be inserted into the game and can finish the baserunning responsibilities of the injured batter-runner (NFHS 3-38a; NCAA 8.5.3.2; USA Softball 4-6D; USSSA 5-9A Eff.).

Lastly, umpires need to be aware of the potential for a concussion. The rule codes for the most part all agree on how to handle these situations.

Anytime a player exhibits signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion, that player must be removed and receive appropriate medical evaluation and may not return until cleared by appropriate medical personnel. Umpires should not try to diagnose a concussion, but should remove players who are exhibiting symptoms and make sure they are cleared by medical personnel. In NFHS, USA Softball and USSSA, a substitute shall be entered for the player who leaves. NCAA rules go a step further than the other three codes in regard to concussions and substitutions. In NCAA play, while the evaluation is taking place, the injured player may be replaced by any eligible player who has not yet played in the game. If the injured player is cleared to resume participation, that player may resume the same spot in the

DALE GARVEY

When an injury, or possible injury, occurs on the diamond, it is important for umpires to know what to do and what not to do. Not all rule codes have the same protocols, so it is important umpires understand the rules for the level of play they are working.

lineup. The temporary replacement player may again participate in the game as a substitute in the same lineup spot only. If a team has no remaining eligible players to become the temporary replacement player for the player being evaluated, a starter or substitute who has previously participated in the game may replace the injured player. Only an

ejected player would be ineligible to participate (8.6).

The most important things to remember are to err on the side of player safety and if there is a significant delay, get together with partners and discuss how to properly restart the game when it comes to potential substitutes, base awards and warmup pitches. 

Hold Your Zone

There are times in a game when

the plate umpire must utilize the holding zone between home and third base. One of these times is in the two-umpire system with a runner on second base and a hit to the outfield, as shown in the MechaniGram.

The important thing for the plate umpire is to get to the holding zone immediately and stay there until a play is imminent at either third base or at the plate. Too often, umpires begin moving to one of those two locations before a play is imminent

and then the ball goes somewhere other than where the umpire anticipated, and now that umpire is out of position. The key is to read and then react and only move when necessary.

The holding zone allows the plate umpire to keep all plays in front of the umpire and provides the best opportunity to see the play develop. Once a play is imminent, move with purpose to either third base or home plate and get in the best possible position to make the call.

By Karen Swanner

The secret to unshakable performance

Sports officiating is aN

avocation with recruitment and retention challenges and high levels of burnout. About two-thirds of officials quit before reaching their third year. What do the officials who stay and make a career of it have that keeps them in the game? The answer: mental fitness.

“What really separates the officials who stay around and those who leave are the intangibles of officiating,” said Dee Kantner, a 40-year veteran basketball official who was one of the first females to officiate in the NBA. “Confidence is one of the most

critically important intangibles of an official’s game that can dictate success and longevity.”

Longtime soccer referee and baseball umpire Steve Baum of New York echoed those sentiments. “I believe officials need to have a certain level of innate self-confidence to be effective,” Baum said. “Too much selfconfidence, however, can significantly hurt an official’s effectiveness if it borders on arrogance. The players will pick up on it and be less willing to work with an arrogant official.

“If you are convinced that you can’t make a mistake, you will be less likely to learn from game incidents,” he added. “I believe I’m fairly confident while officiating — confident enough to admit that I’ve kicked a call, which usually goes a long way toward defusing a situation.”

In simplest terms confidence, or self-efficacy, is the belief you have in your abilities to organize and execute the actions required to achieve a certain attainment. In the case of sports officials, a term called “Refficacy” was developed to identify confidence, defining it as the extent to which officials believe they have the capacity to perform successfully in their job, which

CONFIDENCE

is managing a game. In some cases this means being confident enough to make accurate decisions or acknowledge and correct your mistakes.

the required called extent to is this confident to and make, controversy and satisfaction the that judged criteria

A referee’s level of efficacy is determined by many factors including physical and mental preparation, experience, knowledge, education, support, stress, the number of decisions we have to make, the amount of controversy we face and the level of satisfaction indicated to officials by the coaches, players, fans, crews and that we have with our own individual performances.

An official’s level of Refficacy is judged on six main criteria including:

• Game strategies

•Game knowledge — basic rules, strategies and proper mechanics;

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CONFIDENCE

•Decision-making abilities — accurate judgments, quick and firm decisions, critical decision/moment of truth;

•Strategic skills — field movement and positioning, anticipating game play;

•Psychological skills — remaining calm, composed, able to handle pressure, coping and resilience when making a mistake;

•Game control and communication — interacting effectively with players, coaches, and crews and resolving disputes in a timely and effective manner;

•Physical fitness — conditioning and keeping up with play.

Therefore, an official’s confidence has a profound effect on their thoughts and feelings, resulting in a significant correlation between an official’s level of Refficacy and performance. The level of confidence officials have will influence their decision-making, the challenges they undertake, perseverance, effort, motivation, physical and mental performance, and their ability to successfully manage a game.

Officials with a higher level of Refficacy are more accurate in their decision-making, more effective in their performance, more committed to their profession and get more respect from coaches, players, administrators, fans, crews and even themselves. Confident officials peak under pressure and remain task-focused by processing solutions when facing adversity.

Officials with a lower level of Refficacy have more errors in judgment, delayed reactions, lapses in attention and eventually burn out and leave the avocation. This type of official tends to lose focus on the game quickly by becoming self-diagnostic and focusing on self-perceived inadequacies. These officials who lack or have less confidence usually have higher anxiety and dissatisfaction when officiating. Knowing how to maintain and build confidence is a key factor in retention.

However, an official’s level of confidence is not static. It is something that can fluctuate depending on the situation, such as during your first televised game, a playoff match, an unfamiliar venue, a youth game where

Sandy Klapp, Yorba Linda, Calif.

you are surrounded by screaming parents, if you are working with a brand-new crew, are injured, or maybe you are having a bad day, are sick or not feeling emotionally healthy.

For most officials, their level of confidence changes throughout the game. The timing of that change is heavily influenced by their comfort level and level of experience. An official’s confidence can change upon blowing the first whistle, taking the field, tossing the coin, doing the pregame, calling a penalty, having a discussion with the coach, using proper or improper mechanics, recognizing they are physically fit enough or not fit enough for the competition, making the first critical call in the moment of truth, or even earning the respect of the crew, coaches and players as a result of decision-making.

For 35-year football official Mark Duddy, who has worked as a referee in the Pac-12 for the past 10 years, the coin toss is a key indicator of how he believes his game will go.

“I find that if I’m really good on the coin toss, everything else just seems to flow and my confidence will be there,” Duddy said.

In football, coin tosses often include some added ceremony. “Sometimes there are multiple dignitaries, or staged events; additional things that are added besides just tossing a coin between players,” Duddy said.

He recalled an all-star game where the coin was driven up to him on a motorcycle. “They gave me the coin, I threw it up and said, ‘Heads or tails?’ and realized there were no heads or tails, instead it was either a flag or a motorcycle,” he said. “So I picked up the coin said, ‘It’s tails’ and we moved on.”

For Duddy, who has years of experience at multiple levels, it was just another “day in the office.” But for officials with less experience, the proverbial curve ball could have made a difference in their confidence level for the rest of that game. That type of resilience is what separates officials who remain in the game and those who leave, as unexpected circumstances arise throughout every match to cause our confidence levels to fluctuate as we encounter new and unfamiliar challenges.

“There are a lot of different ways that officials can build, maintain or

Officials with a higher level of confidence are more accurate in their decision-making and more effective in their performance.

regain their confidence,” said sports psychology consultant Dr. Lindsay Ross-Stewart. “I think it is important to first recognize that confidence is constantly changing. We often think about confidence as a static thing, but the truth is confidence is very dynamic.”

For most officials, the one thing we can count on is something will change and a new unexpected challenge will present itself. It could be the venue and field conditions; the level of game you are officiating; players and coaches; your skill level and experience; your fitness and motivation; the leagues or age groups; and for those who officiate at multiple levels, the rules. However, one of the most important changes that could either positively or negatively affect your game confidence is working with unfamiliar partners or crew members.

In some sports, officials are lucky enough to work with the same partner or crew throughout the season. But for others, every time they get to a venue, the crew changes and so do the expectations — we don’t know what to expect! It is impossible to know how a fellow official is going

to perform if you have never worked with him or her before. How do we react when we don’t have confidence in our crew, or our crew doesn’t have confidence in us? What if some members of the crew are veterans and some are new? What if one crew member is overconfident and not willing to work with the other members? How does this impact the game and your confidence, the crew’s confidence, and the players and coaches’ confidence in your ability to successfully manage this contest?

For Laurin Thienes, a soccer official from Illinois, having confidence and familiarity with your crew is an essential part of game management. “The support of your officiating crew is imperative,” Thienes said. “When I don’t have confidence in my crew, I tend to feel the need to do as much of their job as I can in addition to mine. However, it varies with the familiarity I have with the people I am working with and whether I trust in their abilities.

“When my crew does not support me, there is a higher probability that my ability to officiate will be impaired because we are not on the same page,” he said. “When dysfunction, miscommunication and lack of support is noticeable by players and coaches, it makes them less confident in us and game management significantly harder than it already is at times.”

Conversely, if the crew is working effectively as a team, it can be one of the most significant sources of confidence an official can have.

According to sports performance coach Dr. George Carlo, “The most effective builder of confidence is being part of a team. It is the understanding, ‘I am not in this alone. We are in this together.’ It is important for officials to verbalize that with each other, with words like, ‘I have your back. No worries,’” he added. “These types of verbal cues affect an individual’s mind-body connection, which is essential to keep intact to achieve peak performance.”

Carlo also explained that nonverbal physical communication such as a thumbs up, huddling during a pregame, smiling at each other and patting each other on the back are all

necessary parts of building a crew that is confident in each other so it can operate successfully. It all comes down to trust.

Whether it is confidence in your crew or in yourself, to be successful as a sports official, it is important to understand the four main sources of confidence and how to use these sources to stay confident, especially in the face of adversity. These four sources are verbal persuasion, past performance/mastery experience, vicarious experience, and physiological and emotional states. Officials who understand and tap into all four of these sources of Refficacy will have a better opportunity for success.

Verbal Persuasion

Verbal persuasion is helping someone think a certain way through reasoning, logical arguments, emotions and support, which all can help build confidence. It is a way of strengthening one’s beliefs that they have what it takes to succeed. This type of verbal confidence building can come from an outside source or can come from within. Verbal persuasion comes in the form of feedback, advice from a mentor, support and encouragement from family and friends, or even coaches. However, the most effective type of verbal persuasion for confidence building comes from within — positive self-talk. This is a tool that allows you to be your own cheerleader.

Self-talk is the persuasive conversations you have with yourself. It is your inner voice that combines your conscious thoughts with your beliefs. It can change an official’s thoughts, interpretations, behaviors and approach. It is a technique used to improve performance by helping officials regulate their thoughts, feelings and internal energy with respect to certain events. Motivational self-talk is used to inspire, telling yourself things like, “I feel good,” or, “I can do this.” Instructional self-talk revolves around cues that provide direction or focus like, “I can see the goal,” or, “I can work harder in overtime.”

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In order to use self-talk effectively, officials need to focus on positive thinking, as self-talk makes officials feel good about themselves and can motivate officials to keep going even when it looks like there isn’t a bright side.

“Self-talk should be used to focus on the parts of your game that you do well or remind yourself of the calls you have made that are correct,” Ross-Stewart said. “It should reinforce an official’s confidence in their abilities by remembering what they have accomplished and focusing on the things they do correctly.

“One of the things that athletes and officials have in common is their desire to play their mistakes over and over again while forgetting to replay their successes,” she said. “Sport trains that in people, but it is really important to understand you need to learn from your mistakes, not punish yourself.

“As officials, being able to use your personal self-talk to focus on what you have done well and then learn from your mistake and let go, versus punish yourself for that mistake, goes a long way.”

According to Duddy, “There was a time in my career where I would make a mistake and beat myself up, but it wasn’t doing me any good. I wasn’t getting any better. Instead, I started to tell myself, coaches make mistakes, players make mistakes and officials make mistakes. Now instead of catastrophizing my mistakes, I analyze and learn from them.

“While I have been pretty successful in my life, there was a time I was facing some personal adversity including a job loss and a death in my family,” Duddy said. “But I said to myself, ‘I was successful before this company, I was successful at this company and I am going to continue to be successful after this company. The only question is, where is it going to be?

“Learning positive self-talk has really helped me,” Duddy added. “During the game, I talk to myself and that is how I stay focused.”

Using self-talk to remind yourself of who you are, what you’ve accomplished and what you bring to the game is a powerful tool.

Past Performance

Looking at past performance accomplishments is an excellent way for officials to maintain and build confidence, as success builds a robust belief in personal efficacy. Officials look at what they have done successfully in the past, remember how it felt, what decisions they made, what feedback they got and what the outcome was. Positive experiences have a significant impact on life as well as officiating. Positive past performances are often a product of repetition, which leads officials to continue the same behavior, building confidence and self-esteem. Experience is a key factor in growth and development, and looking at past performances is a prerequisite for success.

“In order to build or maintain your level of confidence, officials should look at what they have done before and think about how great they were in that specific game,” Ross-Stewart said. “Focusing on past performance is an excellent resource for reinforcing skills and abilities, telling themselves what they have accomplished and what they have done correctly.”

When officials find themselves in stressful situations even though they made the right decision, and people are giving them a hard time, they need to continue to feel good about what they have done and think, “I was right. I did the best I could. Not everyone is going to be happy with my call. I feel good about having the courage to make that decision.” At that moment, focusing on that past performance keeps officials confident.

This type of self-reflection is an excellent tool to maintain and build confidence when your confidence might be starting to waver, however, experience and preparation can help especially when looking inward.

“I think older and moreexperienced officials tend to have more confidence because they are not as nervous, especially when they are on a big stage,” said FIFA futsal instructor and former national referee Shane Butler. “My confidence will start to waver for a second when I recognize I made an incorrect decision, and I can see it on the VAR. But because of my experience and

preparation, I own it and move on. If I don’t own it, I cannot move past it,” he said. “And in the age of technology it is even more important to be confident and take ownership when we publicly make a mistake.”

While journaling is an effective tool for managing stress, it is equally effective when considering past performance. It is important to look back in a journal and reflect on those moments when you had a great game, made good decisions and walked away feeling like you could not wait for the next game. Read what you wrote in your journal and when you may not be feeling as confident, remind yourself, “I know how to handle this. I’ve done it successfully before. I got this.” And you will.

Vicarious Experience

Vicarious experience is a source of confidence based on learning

from others. Through vicarious experience, people see those similar to themselves succeed through sustained effort, which raises one’s belief in the capability to master comparable activities required to succeed. It could be an official who is your role model, someone you’ve looked up to and wanted to be like; someone you admire and respect their accomplishments, how they’ve handled a difficult situation, challenges and adversity. It could also be someone in your life who is not an official, but emulates confidence, respect, integrity and success, and you want to follow in his or her footsteps.

Vicarious experience is a method of building confidence off the field by watching matches, videos and reviewing other’s successes. Officials imagine themselves in those situations using a tool called imagery,

so we can be prepared when that moment arises. It may just feel like you are daydreaming, but what you are really doing is using a critical performance enhancement skill to build your confidence.

Imagery uses skills that give officials an edge by tapping into your senses of sight, sound, smell, touch and taste — the innate skills that we use every day. Imagery can be used as an auditory or visual skill, but utilizing both is the best. While imagining yourself being successful seems isolated to a mental skill, the truth is that practicing imagery can also improve physical motor skills and muscle memory.

better than you have expected before, you may not reach your goal, but you are certainly going to improve. It is based on the concept that they can do more than they think they can and if they have that mindset, then they are unstoppable.”

physiologicaland emotional states

Imagery works by triggering parts of the brain that are activated when you are actually performing the task by helping you develop and eventually execute the skills. Visualizing your success should be done in detail, so your mind and body already know what it feels like to do things like make a difficult decision in your “moment of truth.”

“When I am away from the game, I practice visualization,” Duddy said. “On my hikes, I think of situations and what I would do.”

“Before games, I go into my own mental space,” Kantner said. “Seeing it on the court before I go out there is very important.”

Kari Seitz, FIFA head of refereeing, women, explained that her journey in officiating started through vicarious experience. “When I was younger, I went to a national team game and watched the officials and said, ‘This is what I want to do. I can do this,’” she said. “I went home and dedicated my time to training, getting more experience and watching other officials.”

Being in the right frame of mind emotionally and at the optimum fitness level to perform the task at hand can be a powerful source of confidence. Peak performance is as essential for officials as it is for athletes. Understanding the mind and body work together will help officials perform at the highest level both physically and mentally. Going into a match in the “right frame of mind” often means leaving the outside/your personal world behind and remaining task focused. This allows officials to perform at their highest level, while building confidence.

“My major sources of confidence are experience and repetition, but physical and mental preparation are extremely important as well,” said Joe Burngasser, a college and minor league baseball umpire from New York. “However, in order to be successful in a game, you have to be able to put life behind you and stay focused on what you are doing in the present.”

Whatever your sources of confidence are, always remember learning from your mistakes, setting realistic goals and expectations and putting yourself in a position that gives you an opportunity to succeed will ultimately put you on the right track for success and longevity in the field of sports officiating.

After having a successful career as a FIFA official, Seitz took the officiating leadership position with FIFA and developed her own confidence-building concept called “Reach Higher.”

“It is a directional way that we guide officials to believe in themselves and that they can compete at a higher level than they ever thought possible,” Seitz said. “The idea is that if you reach higher and push yourself, you are going to do

In her 42 years as a soccer official, Karen Swanner, Maryville, Ill., officiated men’s professional soccer (USL and USISL), men’s professional indoor soccer (MASL, EISL and PASL) and NCAA soccer. She is an Emeritus National referee and regional assessor, instructor and assigner. She also officiated ice hockey for 20 years. She has master’s degrees in journalism and kinesiology, specializing in sports psychology, and is a member of the Association of Applied Sports Psychology. Her website is Theofficialsmind.com. 

Officials can reflect on past performance accomplishments to maintain and build confidence.

Kelly Leger, Honolulu

DON’T BE CAUGHT DEAD

The Ins and Outs of the Dead-Ball Rule

By Joshua Schroeder

We can all agree knowing the rules is important and constantly reading and reviewing these rules is equally important. It truly is an integral part of being, or becoming, an excellent official. From legal guarding

position and verticality to the specifics of the pivot foot and components of a dribble, the rulebook provides parameters in helping to identify fouls and violations. Unfortunately, there are less-exciting rules that get much less attention, even though the impact they can have on the game is just as

significant. So let us take time now to review one of these “not so fun” rules: the dead ball.

Now you may say to yourself, “Really? What significance does the dead ball have other than the determination of a running clock or not?” Well, there are several key

At this point in the game, the ball is dead, as official Blake Lamb, Roy, Utah, has not put the ball at the disposal of the player who will be making a throw-in. Officials need to understand all of the nuances related to dead balls that may occur throughout a game, including their impact on the ability to call timeouts and correctable error situations.

factors and, as we will learn, a dead ball does not even guarantee the clock is stopped. Knowing the ins and outs of the dead-ball rule can, in many cases, alter a ruling that could be made, and knowing the status of the ball, whether it is live or dead, can play a significant part in how a play is adjudicated. So let us dive into the rulebook and analyze the dead ball and its significance.

A dead ball is defined in 6-7 for NFHS and 6-5 for NCAA men’s and women’s play and though these rules are not written with the exact same verbiage, they are very similar in nature, stating a ball becomes dead, or remains dead, when a goal is made. Now, why on earth would knowing this have any impact on officiating basketball?

How about possible correctable error situations? If an official makes an error that could possibly be corrected, there is a very specific time frame in which that error can be rectified: during the first dead ball after the clock starts or before the second live ball if the clock is already running. When a goal is successful and the ball becomes dead, the status of the ball can determine if and when that error is correctable.

Another example involves timeouts. An official can only grant a timeout to a team when the ball is at the disposal or in control of a player of that team, unless the ball is dead. If the ball is dead, either team is allowed to request and be granted a timeout. Knowing the ball is dead after a made basket allows officials to grant timeouts to either team without having to determine any control of a particular team.

Another situation where the ball becomes dead is the moment the whistle is sounded, whether it is a held ball, a foul or a violation, but there are a few exceptions. In situations where a try or tap for a field goal is involved, and the ball is already in flight or if a player has started the act of shooting, the ball does not become dead. This is most commonly seen when a shooter gets fouled and is why the ever famous “and one” exists. Because if the ball successfully enters the basket, the goal counts. Points are awarded to

the shooting team and one free throw is awarded (two free throws if the foul is intentional/flagrant/disqualifying). But remember, the foul does not have to happen against the shooter. Any foul by the defense against any other player can occur and the result would be the same, minus the “and one.”

Now that we have established the exception to a dead ball on a foul occurring during a try for goal, let us add another variable to the equation. If that foul is made by the shooter and/or a teammate of the shooter, the ball becomes dead immediately as the exception no longer applies. So even if the ball continues into and through the basket, the goal will not count and points will not be awarded.

The dead-ball rule also applies when time expires for a quarter, half or extra period. Once the horn sounds, or the light behind the backboard illuminates, the ball is dead and the quarter, half or extra period is over. Everyone knows that. And most everyone also knows when a ball has been released from a shooter’s hands and is in the air on a try for goal, an exception to this rule is made, keeping the ball live until the try ends or the airborne shooter returns to the floor. So knowing when the ball is live or dead in these specific situations is important in order to rule properly whether or not to score a goal. But the impact a dead ball can have does not end with these scoring scenarios.

There are other actions for players and/or bench personnel that may result in a different ruling depending on whether the ball is live or dead. Dunking, for example, is an exciting way for a player to score points during live play. However, if a player dunks or attempts to dunk a dead ball, that exact same action would now be considered illegal and penalized with a technical foul.

Or how about contact that happens after the whistle is blown for a nonshooting foul? All officials know that any illegal contact during a dead ball should be considered a technical foul, right? Well, that is not exactly right. In NFHS and NCAAM, contact after the ball has become dead is to be considered incidental unless that contact is ruled to be intentional or

BY THE NUMBERS

$50K

The amount the NBA fined Sacramento Kings head coach Mike Brown after he stormed the court to confront an official and then used a laptop during a postgame press conference to criticize the officials following a Jan. 14 overtime loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. “I wanted to illustrate a point and I did that. Now it’s time to move forward,” said Brown of his decision to use the computer to share his thoughts.

SOURCE: ESPN.COM

DID YOU KNOW?

When it was announced Jan. 24 that Bill Vinovich would serve as the referee for Super Bowl LVIII between the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers, chances are only a few people understood it would have an impact on college basketball officiating as well.

In addition to his NFL job, Vinovich has worked as a men’s college basketball official since 1992. He primarily works in the Western Basketball Officiating Consortium and logged 19 games during the 2023-24 season prior to his Super Bowl appearance. His NFL duties meant no hoops assignments between Feb. 3 and Feb. 12.

He returned to the hardwood Feb. 13 for a game at San Diego State.

THEY SAID IT

“Yes, I do get feedback every night and we talk and he’s hard on me, and then he gives me a good little pat on the back.

‘Great call, but you know …’ I want that feedback, cause that’s how we get better.”

— NBA official Natalie Sago, on her relationship with her father, Dr. Shelton Sago, a longtime former high school basketball official in Missouri

SOURCE: @OFFICIALNBAREFS X ACCOUNT

In each of the following, decide which answer or answers are correct for NFHS, NCAA men’s and NCAA women’s rules, which might vary. Solutions: p. 85

1. Which is true of teammates occupying adjacent positions around the center circle during the game’s opening jump ball?

a. Teammates may not occupy adjacent positions around the center circle at any time.

b. Teammates can always occupy adjacent positions around the center circle.

c. Teammates may not occupy adjacent positions around the center circle if an opponent indicates a desire for one of these positions before the referee is ready to toss the ball.

2. A1 commits a foul against B2 while A3’s successful try is in flight. Team B is in the bonus. How is play resumed?

a. One-and-one free-throw attempt to B2.

b. Two free throws to B2.

c. Designated-spot throw-in to team B.

d. Non-designated spot throw-in to team B.

3. During A1’s interrupted dribble, A2 and B3 commit a double personal foul. Both teams are in the bonus, and the possession arrow favors team B. How is play resumed?

a. Both teams shoot free throws, and play is resumed at the point of interruption after the free throws are shot.

b. Both teams shoot free throws, and play is resumed with a throw-in to team B after the free throws.

c. No free throws are shot. Throwin to team A.

d. No free throws are shot. Throwin to team B.

4. A1 is selected to shoot the first of two free throws for a technical foul. The first free throw is unsuccessful. Who may shoot the second free throw?

a. A1 only.

b. Any team A player only.

c. Any team A player or substitute.

5. During a timeout, the game clock is allowed to display which of the following?

a. The time remaining in the current period/quarter.

b. The time remaining in the timeout.

c. The time remaining in a promotional activity being conducted during the timeout.

d. Any of the above. TEST YOURSELF

flagrant. Only then should a technical foul be assessed. In NCAAW, contact during the dead-ball period following a successful goal may be a personal, intentional or disqualifying foul.

All of these situations we have addressed can have a considerable impact on the game, and each one depends on you knowing the status of the ball. So next time you are reviewing the rules or maybe even asked to give a presentation to a group

of your peers, consider covering the dead ball. Because knowing and understanding the differences that may occur based on whether a ball is dead or not could mean the difference between being a good or great official. Joshua Schroeder, Schaumburg, Ill., is a certified state clinician and the founder of the Officials Institute, a nationwide online officials association and YouTube training channel for high school basketball officials. 

Chasing a Perfect ‘10’

By Tim Sloan

Let’s do something different and start right off with a play.

Play 1: Team A is advancing the ball in its backcourt against a press. A 10-second violation is imminent as A1, near the division line on the right side, is pressured by B2. Meanwhile, the trail official is observing this action from the left side, 30 feet away. A1 releases the ball toward A3, who is positioned near the frontcourt sideline, in front of the center official. A3 touches the ball, (a) before, or (b) after the 10-second count expires. Ruling 1: Well, it depends. If the trail official is using his or her own visible count, that official can “sync” the ball touching A3 to the official’s count and be confident of the ruling (assuming the official counts to 10 accurately). Hence, play continues in (a), but team A violates in (b); team B will inbound the ball at the nearest 28-foot mark to A1’s location in NFHS and NCAAM, and the spot nearest the violation in NCAAW. (When a violation occurs with the ball in flight on a pass, its location is where it was last touched by a player.)

If, instead, the trail official is using the shot clock for the 10-second count, who knows?

The trail official’s problem is that if this official is properly positioned and focusing on the activity between A1 and B2 first, the official is not likely to have a shot clock in the field of view; it’s mounted on top of the backboard. That official won’t

see when it hits :25 in NFHS play (:20 in NCAAM/W) and isn’t fond of guessing. If the trail official looks toward the shot clock, that official misses activity around A1. If the trail official focuses on A1, that official can’t be certain whether A3 touches the ball in time, or even whether A3 touches it legally, inbounds. The trail official can’t rotate around the A1/ B2 matchup to see the clock because it would take too long. It would also place the official hopelessly out of position, and in traffic if the press succeeds.

Paradigm shift: Where does it say the trail official has to be the keeper of the backcourt count?

In the days before the shot clock, the trail official was mechanically assigned the counting, so it made sense he or she would declare when the backcourt count reached 10 and blow the whistle. Today, the count is kept on the shot clock so all three officials and 20,000 spectators can see it. As demonstrated in play 1, there are times when the trail official might not be the best choice to make that call.

Because of what could happen through 8, 9, 10 … it might make sense for a crew to have the lead or center official also monitor the count. In play 1, leaving it in charge of the center official isn’t the best idea either, because that official will also be distracted by A3’s activity.

It’s always sensible to adopt a mechanic that has no branches in the decision tree, so the new lead

While transitioning up the floor to become the new lead official, David Reyes, Pasadena, Calif., may not have any immediate matchup responsibilities. As such, he may be able to help assist his partners on issues related to the shot clock, such as possible 10-second backcourt violations.

official might be the best person to manage the 10-second count all the time. Typically, the lead is somewhere downcourt with little more to do than monitor post players until the hordes arrive; he or she could easily look through that assignment and have a wide vista of play 1 unfolding — the players, the ball and the shot clock. If we’re worried about the lead official being too far from the play, I would only answer that the back judge in football is 25 yards away from the ball when throwing a flag for delay of game; a question of fact is easier to sell than one of judgment from a distance.

A possible problem with the lead official having the call is if A3 touches the ball “in time” but still has backcourt location. The lead official might not be able to see that and erroneously let the play continue as the count should be expiring. The center or trail officials could help, perhaps by using a prearranged gesture to confirm A3’s location to the lead official.

So the mechanic would look like this:

Play 2: Same as play 1, but the lead official is monitoring the shot clock and the 10-second count from the frontcourt endline. Ruling 2: The lead official rules that play continues in (a), but a backcourt violation is called in (b). That official then rotates to the 28-foot mark in team B’s new frontcourt, closest to A1’s last location (NFHS and NCAAM) or the nearest designated spot (NCAAW) for a team B throw-in.

Using the lead to make the call more affirmatively also enhances the crew’s credibility. If, in play 1, the trail official makes a late call, is he or she calling a violation or a foul by B2 — or just caught unaware of the situation? Even if the center or trail official then swoops in and blows

the play dead based on their own positive information, it still isn’t a good look.

Some might wonder why this hasn’t come up before. Easy: The NFHS and NCAA have long had the 10-second violation in their respective rulebooks, but the NFHS especially, given recent rule changes allowing for use of a shot clock by state adoption, is only now widely embracing the shot clock to enforce

this violation. Play 1 doesn’t happen often but, when it does, there will be a lot going on to be on top of; the crew might be happy they pregamed for this type of situation and were prepared to handle it, even if it is not an NFHS (nor NCAA) approved mechanic.

Tim Sloan, Davenport, Iowa, is a high school football, basketball and volleyball official, and former college football and soccer official. 

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CASEPLAYS

Delaying Administration of a Throw-in

Play: Team A has been in a full-court press against team B following successful field-goal attempts, but team B has been able to inbound the ball before team A gets its defense set up. Following A1’s made basket, A1 slaps the ball away right before B2 is able to secure it to begin the subsequent throw-in. It was clear A1 slapped the ball away to allow team A to set up its press defense in team B’s backcourt. Is there any penalty for A1’s action? What is the result if later in the game, A3 does the exact same thing after a successful team A goal? Ruling: When a player attempts to gain an advantage by interfering with the ball after a goal, such as what occurred when A1 slapped the ball away giving team A more time to set up its press defense, the first offense is a team warning that shall be recorded by the official scorer in the scorebook. If any other player for that team commits that same delay, such as what A3 did later in the game, the result is a team technical foul charged to the team in NFHS and NCAAW, and a Class B technical foul charged to A3 in NCAAM (NFHS 4-473, 10-2-1e; NCAAM 4-10.1.c.2, 10-4.1.l; NCAAW 4-9.1.f, 4-9.2, 10-12.3.a.4).

Inadvertent Whistle

Play: A1 has the ball at his or her disposal for a throw-in. Team B’s coach requests a timeout. An official mistakenly blows the whistle to acknowledge and grant the request for timeout. After blowing the whistle, the official realizes team B should not be granted the timeout since the ball was in team A’s control. Shall team B be granted a timeout?

Ruling: When the official blew the whistle but did not have a ruling to make because a team cannot be granted a timeout when the opponent has team control, the result is an inadvertent whistle. The inadvertent whistle creates a dead ball. Either team can be granted a timeout when the ball is dead, so team B shall be allowed to call a timeout during this dead ball if it so desires (NFHS 5-8.3, 5.8.3E; NCAAM 4-20.1, 5-14.1.c, 5-151.a,; NCAAW 4-16.1, 5-14.1.c, 5-15-1.a).

The Art of Moving Parts

Apregame joke often shared by high school officials working three-person mechanics is if the crew incorrectly handles a switch following a foul ruling, it’s not the end of the world, as chances are only the three officials on the court actually understand the proper court movement in the first place.

The truth be told, there are certain situations in which that isn’t even accurate.

A great example of a switching situation that often throws a crew for a loop is when the tableside trail official rules a foul on the offense that is going to result in free throws on the opposite end of the court (see MechaniGram). The most likely scenario is a foul committed by the offense during rebounding action after the defensive team has already reached the bonus (remember, if it’s a team-control foul on the offense, such

as an illegal screen, it is not going to result in free throws).

The easiest duties following this whistle belong to the trail official. In NFHS mechanics, any foul ruling that results in free throws causes the ruling official to remain tableside. As such, the trail official simply moves to the foul reporting position and then remains as the trail. No muss, no fuss.

Where things get interesting is regarding the movement of the two remaining officials. Many times the lead official, who at the time of the whistle is on the same side of the floor as the trail, believes the proper course of action is to head to the opposite endline, remaining as the lead official and administering the free throws. The logic is that in doing so, there are not multiple officials having to cross over to the other side of the playing court from their positions at the time the trail official made the foul ruling.

However, this is not the correct mechanic. In simple terms, what

In NFHS mechanics, any foul ruling that results in free throws causes the ruling official to remain tableside.

should happen is the official who is closest to the endline goes there and becomes the lead, with the remaining official becoming the center. So, on this play, the old center official crosses the court, heads to the endline, becomes the new lead and administers the free throws. The old lead official also crosses the court and becomes the new center, with responsibilities including the legality of the free-throw shooter, rebounding action and chopping to start the clock

once the ball is touched following a missed free throw.

At first, this mechanic may feel awkward for a crew, as it requires two officials to move to opposite sides of the court. The benefit in doing so is it actually creates a switch for all three officials as opposed to keeping any official “locked” into the same position, which would be the case for the center official if the old lead ran the length of the floor to become the new lead at the opposite end. 

STUDENT

STUDENT TEACHER

Awide variety of descriptors are used by his inner circle to create a portrait of Mike Eades.

Competitive. Loyal. Sincere. Direct but diplomatic. A great communicator and a great leader.

But perhaps no single word gets more miles to the gallon than “teacher,” which is certainly appropriate given his work to educate the hundreds of men’s college basketball officials who now fall under his watchful eye.

In fact, it’s the last thought shared by Eades himself — now in his fourth season as the coordinator of men’s basketball officials for a six-conference consortium headlined by the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and including the American Athletic, Atlantic Sun, Southern, Southwestern and Sun Belt

By Scott Tittrington

AFTER AN ILLUSTRIOUS CAREER, MIKE EADES EMBRACES MAKING EVERYONE ELSE BETTER AS A COORDINATOR.

conferences — during a 90-minute interview that covers the soup to nuts of his life overall and his officiating career specifically.

“My biggest thing about the job I have now is I want to teach, and I want to make everyone better,” he says before ending the call and turning his attention to the assorted electronics that will help him evaluate the dozens of officials working that evening’s games. “I know we’re in a good place, but I’ve got to keep finding ways for us to get better.”

Notice the use of that word “us.” Eades, 60, may now be the teacher, and in fact was also one in a more literal use of the word for more than a quartercentury before accepting his current post in the spring 2020. But the reason he finds himself in one of the most important roles in college basketball

officiating today is because he understands it’s even more important he remain an exemplary student.

Because for Eades, the old axiom about the student becoming the teacher certainly rings true.

The education of Eades — both in real life and in basketball — dates back to his childhood in the early 1970s in Princeton, W.Va. He still calls the Appalachian town of 5,800 people just a few miles from the state’s southeastern border with Virginia home. The oldest of three children, Eades fondly remembers his dad, Benny, instilling a love of sports “for as long as I can remember.” One of those earliest memories centers around the pickup games in which young Mike

often found himself during his formative years.

“The neighborhood I grew up in had a lot of older boys. Playing against the older guys, I was 7, 8, 9 years old. I used to get my head beat in and they would send me home,” he said with a laugh. “Dad was like, ‘You go right back out there.’ I didn’t want to.

“It helped make me real competitive. My dad put in me that competitive spirit. He knew what he was doing. I didn’t know what he was doing.”

“I told him, ‘Hey, you’re going to have to get back out there and straighten it out yourself,’” said Benny Eades, now 82, independently corroborating his son’s story without prompting. “I always told him, ‘You’re going to have to be tough. If you’re not, you’re not going to make it in whatever you do.’

“He grabbed hold of that and he still does. Whatever he’s doing, he’s 100 percent. That’s just him. He tries to do things the right way. … He was a scrapper.”

The next step in Eades’ education came at Princeton High School, where he lettered in baseball and basketball,

leading the Tigers to state championships on the hardwood in his sophomore and senior seasons in 1979 and 1981. However, in a true testament to Eades’ competitive nature, what first comes to mind when discussing his high school experience is that sandwiched 1980 season, where Princeton came up short in the state semifinals.

“I can still remember to this day — the last shot that I took. I got into the lane, jumped into the (defender), missed the shot and we lost by three,” Eades said. “That loss really stuck with me.”

After being selected as an all-state guard for two seasons, Eades opted to attend LeesMcRae College, a junior college located in Banner Elk, N.C., where he still holds several assists records despite the fact the school is now a fouryear institution. He is also a member of the school’s hall of fame. Eades transferred to the University of North CarolinaGreensboro for his junior year, then ended his collegiate playing career, moving back home and choosing to finish out his schooling at Bluefield (W.Va.) State University.

“I just wanted to come back home,” Eades said. “Really, I probably should have kept playing, but I just didn’t. I kept playing, but I didn’t want to play collegiately. I played year-round until I was about 32 years old.

The competitive thing, I just couldn’t shake it.”

Eades and his hometown buddies would travel around the region to play in competitive men’s league cash games.

“You’d be in these areas where you knew you would have to beat the home team and a couple of refs,” Eades said, noting the irony given what would become his station in life. “It was just a monster challenge. Those were great times, because I loved the competition. I was playing with my boys, my guys.

“It wasn’t winning the trophies and the plaques. It was just winning. And I had a lot of technical fouls. It was bad. And I deserved every one.”

Eades’ competitive barnstorming days came to an end in 1995 when he and his wife, Gina, welcomed their son, Anthony, into the world. However, by then, he had found a new course of study.

Upon his graduation from Bluefield State, Eades, armed with a degree in education, accepted a job teaching G.E.D. social studies and math classes to at-risk kids in southeastern West Virginia. A few years after becoming a teacher in the classroom, he was in search of some extra income and a friend suggested he take up officiating. The enticing offer? Three rec league games a night at $7.50 apiece.

“I was like, ‘I didn’t want to ref,’” Eades said of his first reaction. “I started doing it and I was hooked.”

As with everything else in his first 30 years of life, Eades attacked the avocation with competitive zeal and learned a lot along the way. The next fall he registered with the West Virginia Secondary

While a student at Princeton (W.Va.) High School, above left, Mike Eades (airborne in the background) led the Tigers to two state titles. Above right, Eades is shown with his dad, Benny, and son, Anthony.

Schools Activities Association and during the 1990-91 season, started officiating high school varsity games. He attended his first camp in 1993, and it wasn’t long before he was hired into the West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WVIAC), part of the NAIA, as a member of the league’s women’s basketball officiating staff.

After one year at the collegiate level, Eades expressed his desire to cross over to the men’s game and take the next step in his goal of becoming a top-level men’s basketball official. His supervisors shared their honest opinion that, at that moment, he wasn’t quite ready.

However, as the saying goes, luck is when preparation meets opportunity, and Eades would discover his dose of luck during the penultimate weekend of the 1994-95 season. John Holt, the WVIAC supervisor of officials, had attended a recent women’s game and was impressed by Eades’ work.

“He calls me on a Friday night. ‘A guy got injured, and I need you to do the men’s game at Concord College,’” Eades recalled. “Things just kind of took off from there. If he hadn’t been there, I don’t know what would have happened. I’m glad he was. I was working hard. I was getting better. But if he’s not at the game …”

Big break in hand, Eades continued working in the WVIAC and attending five to six camps each offseason. In the summer 1997, he was hired into the Big South and MidAmerican conferences.

“When I got hired into the Big South, I was thinking, ‘I’m the big man from West Virginia.’ I was thinking I was going to get 10-15 games. And I got one game,” he said with a laugh. “I was pissed off. I didn’t know how it worked.

“And again, the competitive fire kicked in.”

Two years later came the phone call he would never

forget. Upon starting his officiating career, Eades set a goal of one day working in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). In July 1999, while he and Gina were visiting his mother-in-law, then-ACC coordinator of officials Fred Barakat extended an invitation for Eades to join the conference staff.

“I like to say it was luck but a lot of hard work as well,” Eades said. “I wanted to get into the ACC and I knew what I had to do. I knew I could always self-check myself. That really helped me, and I think that came from my dad.”

After a year-plus of nonconference ACC assignments, Eades made his conference debut on Feb. 21, 2001, working alongside veterans Tim Higgins and Mike Kitts as Georgia Tech visited No. 3 Duke at Cameron Indoor Stadium.

He would quickly rise to become one of the top officials in the ACC, working his first ACC tournament game in 2003, with his first ACC tournament final coming in 2008. In between, he was selected for his first NCAA tournament game in 2004, sent to Buffalo for a 1 vs. 16 matchup between St. Joseph’s, led by future NBA guard Jameer Nelson, and Liberty. His

Above right, a key part of Mike Eades’ work as coordinator of officials for the SEC consortium is instructing younger officials at various offseason camps. Above left, before assuming his new role, Eades spent 26 years as a college official.

partners for that game were Verne Harris and Steve Welmer.

“That’s where they needed me at, right there,” Eades said with a laugh. “It was snowing, cold and it didn’t bother me at all.”

Deep tournament runs became a frequent occurrence starting in 2010, when he worked his first Sweet 16, followed by an Elite Eight appearance one year later. In 2013, he was an alternate for the Final Four in Atlanta. He then received three consecutive Final Four assignments from 2015-17, including the 2017 championship game between North Carolina and Gonzaga in Phoenix. Once again he worked with Harris along with Michael Stephens.

AS WITH EVERYTHING ELSE IN HIS FIRST 30 YEARS OF LIFE, EADES ATTACKED THE AVOCATION WITH COMPETITIVE ZEAL AND LEARNED A LOT ALONG THE WAY.

“The ACC is obviously known for men’s basketball,” Eades said. “The places I refereed in throughout the ACC were great. They made me a better official. The crowds were rough. The coaches were rough.

“I had some good mentors along the way — Jamie Luckie, Bryan Kersey, Joe Forte, Reggie Cofer, John Clougherty — that really helped me. You’ve gotta have a few mentors to help you who

will be honest and tell you what you need to hear, not necessarily what you want to hear.”

Luckie and Eades both began their ascent through the lower levels of NCAA basketball in the mid-’90s, with the former catching his ACC break a few years before the latter. A few years later, Luckie — who would also go on to work three Final Fours — made a strong case for bringing Eades into the big time.

“I can remember seeing Mike at an invite camp in Indy. When we (the clinicians) had to submit our top referees, I remember going to a board and pointing specifically at his name. I said I’d take this guy right here over anybody,” Luckie said.

“I saw the same things that would catch my eye even now as an experienced official — somebody who has a great feel for the game and looks like they belong out there. Do they have good instincts, a good feel for the game, can they communicate? In my opinion, Mike’s one of the best communicators in the college game.

“I specifically remember him just kind of reminding me of

Bottom, one of Eades’ closest friends in officiating was Reggie Cofer. The two worked together on the SEC officiating consortium leadership team prior to Cofer’s death in November.

me a little bit. No-nonsense, not afraid to grind. A grinder and a fighter.”

That grind would eventually catch up with Eades soon after his Final Four three-peat. He injured his knee during the 201819 season, keeping him out of the NCAA tournament officiating pool for the first time in almost two decades, then saw his hopes of a March Madness return dashed one year later when the COVID-19 pandemic wiped out the 2020 tourney.

Soon after the NCAA made that decision, Eades was sitting at home in April when his phone rang. On the other end of the line was Dan Leibovitz, then the associate commissioner for men’s basketball in the SEC.

“I knew him. I didn’t know him well; he just kind of caught me off-guard,” Eades said about his initial reaction after picking up the phone. “Halfway through the call it dawned on me that I think this guy is interested in me for the SEC position.”

Mark Whitehead, the conference’s coordinator of men’s basketball officials for the previous four seasons, had just resigned from the post. Most people will tell you a good boss always keeps a ready list of potential successors in the mental filing cabinet in case of such an occurrence, and Leibovitz immediately turned his thoughts to an official who had

earned his respect in countless ways during the previous few seasons.

“Mike was a consummate pro as an official. He was an excellent communicator as an official,” Leibovitz said. “I knew he would have the respect of the coaches in our league and the officials in the league and the consortium because of how he had officiated.”

Also not to be discounted was how Leibovitz saw Eades interact with officials away from the floor. During one particular preseason clinic for the SEC officiating consortium Leibovitz took note of a group of officials one night at a local watering hole in Atlanta. At the center was Eades, not surrounded by the big names he worked with each night during the season, but a group of young, up-and-coming officials trying to navigate their way into the world of big-time college basketball.

“That’s what resonates with people. It made an impression on me that Mike had four or five guys from his area that he was looking after,” Leibovitz said. “He felt the need to pay things forward the way somebody had mentored him.

“I knew there was a possibility (in 2020) that Mike might be ready to come off the floor. I reached out to him very early in the process and I would say caught him completely by surprise.”

“It was like walking around the corner of something and getting hit with a brick, because it was sort of out of nowhere,” said Eades, before recalling the reaction of his wife, who was already asleep when he took the call from Leibovitz. “She goes, ‘You woke me up to tell me that?’

“I didn’t sleep for the next two nights. ‘Do I want to follow through with this, or

Top, Mike Eades holds court during a classroom session at an Elite Youth Basketball League officiating camp in 2021.

do I want to keep reffing?’”

While Gina may not have been a willing sounding board that first night, there were plenty of deep conversations to come between the two and also their son, Anthony, himself a rising D-I basketball official. Eades also repeatedly bent the ear of Kersey, one of his closest on-thefloor confidantes who had himself left the court to become the head of the ACC officiating consortium in 2016 — where he was Eades’ primary boss.

“These jobs don’t come open often. And when they do, you have to listen to them,” Kersey said. “We talked a lot about the process.”

It turned out the process was on the fast track. After a few more conversations with Leibovitz and SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey, followed by a visit to the conference headquarters in Birmingham, Ala., Eades was formally offered the job in late April and officially took over on May 2, 2020.

“There was an immediate level of comfort on both ends and both sides felt great about it,” Leibovitz said.

The ensuing four years has done nothing to change the opinion of any of the key parties involved in that decision. Eades has excelled in his roles as teacher, evaluator and assigner for the consortium’s officials.

Leibovitz, who recently left the SEC to become the senior associate commissioner for men’s basketball in the Big East Conference, raves about the work Eades and his leadership team — including former NBA official Bob Delaney, former NCAA official Tony Greene and the recently deceased Cofer — have done since coming on board.

“Mike has lived up to our expectations,” Leibovitz said. “It’s a very difficult role. No one’s going to tell you what a good job you’re doing.

“Mike’s credibility and his

proactivism when situations arise, and his honesty, have gone a long way. He’s also a very good teacher. He does an outstanding job at clinics. He really shines as someone who teaches his philosophy on officiating and reinforces the rules and proper mechanics.”

Kersey echoed those sentiments, relaying how one of his favorite former on-court partners has now become his trusted peer and sounding board in the coordinator’s ranks.

“He’s perfect for that job. He’s absolutely perfect,” Kersey said. “The ACC lost a great ref, but college basketball gained a really, really good coordinator in the SEC.

“He has an air about him that makes you know what you mean to him, not only as part of the game, but as a person.”

Perhaps no person is more qualified to speak about that last point than Gina Eades, a West Virginia native herself who met her future husband when he walked into a Cellular One store where she worked, looking to purchase a new cell phone during the technology’s infancy in the early 1990s.

Mike Eades credits his spouse for being the family rock, understanding that for five to six months each winter, she was essentially thrust into the role of a oneparent household, raising young Anthony while her

Mike Eades’ family includes his son, Anthony (left), and wife, Gina. Here they are pictured attending a New York Mets game with family friend Trevor Mullins at Citi Field in New York.

husband traveled throughout much of the eastern half of the country in pursuit of his officiating dreams.

Given that dedication and support — especially the hundreds of sleepless nights caused not just by her husband waking her up to tell her about a new job opportunity, but 30 years of worry caused by canceled flights and traveling through all-night blizzards to reach the next game’s destination — it’s only fitting that she gets the opportunity to have the last word when it comes to her other half.

AT A GLANCE

Age: 60 |Residence: Princeton, W.Va. Current role: Hired in spring 2020 as coordinator of men’s basketball officials for the SEC consortium that includes the AAC, ASUN, SoCon, Sun Belt and SWAC.

On-court career: Worked 23 years as NCAA D-I official, primarily in the ACC. Selected to work three consecutive Final Fours from 2015-17, including the 2017 championship game. He was a Final Four standby official in 2013. He also officiated five Elite Eights and four Sweet 16 games.

Family: Married to Gina; son, Anthony, 29, is following in his footsteps as a D-I men’s basketball official, primarily in the ACC consortium.

After cracking a few jokes about the vast amount of useless knowledge in her husband’s head, his sports trivia obsession and his late-in-life attempt to become a better golfer, she proudly settles into the heart of the matter.

What do people need to know and understand about your husband?

“His dedication to me and Anthony and to his work. He’s a very hard worker and failure is not an option to him. He’s somebody that is very driven and determined. But he’s family-first, too. I don’t know how he does it all.

“I’m very proud of him, of who he is and what he’s accomplished.”

Scott Tittrington is an associate editor for Referee. He officiates women’s college and high school basketball, high school football, and umpires college and high school baseball. 

INSPECTION ATTENTION

A Hands-on Approach to Spotting Trouble Before It Hits

By Vince DeFranco

Inspecting the field is something commonly overlooked by referees, especially at lower levels. A match referee’s most important duty, especially at the youth level, is to ensure the safety of the players. Many steps can be taken to provide a safe and fair playing field.

For most contests, the referee crew should arrive no later than 30 minutes before the game in order to allow enough time to thoroughly complete pregame tasks. A walk of the entire field is necessary to ensure a safe, fair and equitable match. Doing a proper check of the field before the game will

make a great first impression of the referee with the spectators, coaches and players because it will demonstrate the referee crew cares about the game.

Among the most important inspected items are the goals. Make sure there are no holes in the nets and the nets are properly attached to the goal frame. A ball could go through any such opening and make it very difficult for the referee crew to award a goal. It is suggested the referee not fix them. Officials do not want to put themselves in a situation where they damage something further or someone places blame on them. It is the home team’s responsibility to fix the issues; let them.

Most importantly, with respect to the safety of the players, is whether the goals are sufficiently anchored to the ground. The referee needs to be satisfied the goal will not tip over during the match. Normally anchoring is accomplished by metal stakes pounded into the ground or sandbags placed on the back support. The referee need not worry about how they are anchored but must make sure they are. Someone on the crew should pull on each vertical post with a good degree of strength and make sure the goal will not come loose from a large gust of wind, for example. Before doing that, make sure there is no one present at any

Andy Walker, Newport Beach, Calif., checks for potential problems with the goal netting as part of the crew’s pregame routine.

point where the goal might fall over. If the goalkeepers are warming up, ask them to step aside for just a few seconds while the anchoring of the goal is tested. There have been scenarios where players have been killed because a goal fell on their head during a game. Don’t be the referee that allows that to happen.

Make sure the rear edge of the goalposts align with the outside edge of the goalline and the goal is equidistant from each edge of the goal area. On a regular-sized field, this will be six yards, but it is important to note games on smaller fields might require competition rules review to see exactly how big the goal areas are to know the distance the goalpost is supposed to be from the edge of the goal area. If a goalline does not align with the goalposts and cannot be repaired, report it after the game to the appropriate match officials or administrators.

A visual inspection should be made around the goals to make sure nothing will interfere with a ball in play. An example might be football uprights on a multi-use field where the soccer ball might strike an upright while in play on the soccer field. It is important to note any ground rules and how the referee should treat specific situations. In the example, typically if the ball hits football uprights it is considered out of play immediately and a goal kick or corner kick is awarded based on who touched the ball last. Ask the home team during pregame what the ground rules are for any particular ground rule situation. This is also a good time to look around for any lacrosse nets or other portable equipment that might get in the way or be a danger to the players. Make sure they are moved and/or stowed away to a safe place to avoid danger to any participants.

The next part of the field inspection should be to make sure the markings on the field are correct for your game. You should familiarize yourself with the competition rules to find out what the field dimensions should be. If it is a standard 11 vs. 11, those dimensions are in the NFHS and NCAA rulebooks and in the

IFAB Laws of the Game. The most important markings to check are the length of the goal area lines (six yards from the goalline), the penalty area lines (18 yards from the goalline), the distance of the penalty spot from the goalline (12 yards) and the restraining arc and the center circle are 10 yards in radius.

It is also a good idea to check the hashmarks outside the field of play used to restrain defending players on a corner kick (they are not mandatory, but if they are there, they should be the correct distance). Make sure those are 10 yards from the corner arcs.

The next item of attention would be corner flags. Make sure they are at least five feet tall and there are no pointed edges on the top which may be dangerous to the players. If flags are provided at the center lines make sure they are put at a point at least a yard off the touchline. If the ball hits one of these the ball is declared out of play and fully over the touchline. The ball remains in play if it hits one of the corner flags. If there are no corner flags, or they are unsafe for play, pylons can be substituted. The appropriate match officials or administrators must be notified in writing after the match if a substitution is made.

DID YOU KNOW?

In 1947, English referee Ken Aston introduced brightly colored red and yellow flags for linesmen instead of the colors of the home team, as was previously the case. He explained he was officiating a match on a foggy London day and the colors of the home team were beige and chocolate — colors he was unable to see through the fog.

THEY SAID IT

“As we were walking the field, they started clapping for us. It was a moment that I’ll never forget. And Tori and I started waving to them — and they started clapping louder. And it was men, it was little boys, it was women. It was very powerful to be received like that. We felt like, ‘OK, we’re here, let’s do this.’”

— Referee Brooke Mayo, speaking about her time as a female official in Saudi Arabia during the 2023 FIFA Men’s Club World Cup

SIDELINE

MLS Announces Referee, AR Awards

When walking the field, the crew should also be looking for any unusual items such as power lines overhead or tree limbs that cross over the touchline. Look for multiple lines on the field. If there are some, define the soccer markings. Inspect the goal frame for combination football and soccer goals. The ground rules for these situations should be reviewed with both coaches prior to the match and relayed to the captains during the pregame coin toss.

Victor Rivas (at right) was named the 2023 MLS Referee of the Year and Ian McKay was named Assistant Referee of the Year, both first-time recipients.

Rivas made his MLS debut in 2018 and was the 2022 MLS Conference Finals fourth official. Rivas is in his first full year on the FIFA International Panel.

McKay also debuted in 2018. He was the assistant referee in the 2023 MLS All-Star Game.

Another consideration is where the fans are situated. Are they too close to the touchline so it can create a dangerous situation for players? Is there a restraining mark or stands where the fans should be located? If there are any problems with the spectator location, ask the coaches to correct the problem.

Finally, we need to make sure the overall condition of the field is safe for the players. Mother Nature can

TEST YOURSELF

In each of the following, decide which answer or answers are correct for NFHS, NCAA or IFAB rules/Laws. Solutions: p. 85.

1. Team A is wearing thin white socks. The referee observes A1 has age-appropriate pink shin guards under the socks.

a. Stop play and send A1 off for improper equipment.

b. Legal.

c. Caution the coach for the improper equipment.

2. A1 takes a throw-in that is not entering the field. A2 catches it outside the field and throws it back to A1, who is now on the field. A1 plays the ball upfield.

a. Legal if thrown from almost the same spot.

b. Illegal and award indirect free kick for team B.

c. Illegal and award throw-in for team B.

3. A1 is attempting to trap a ball and puts hands in front of the body. The ball hits the hands, and hands direct the ball.

a. Hand ball and direct free kick for team B.

b. Legal.

c. Illegal if the hands move forward after the ball touches them.

4. B1 challenges for the ball in a reckless manner and commits a foul within team B’s own penalty area which denies an opponent an obvious goalscoring opportunity (DOGSO).

a. Eject B1 for DOGSO.

b. Caution B1 for DOGSO in the penalty area in a reckless manner.

c. Caution B1 for DOGSO in the penalty area.

5. A1 is frustrated with team A’s play and pushes A2 to the ground after A2 misplays a ball.

a. Caution A1 for the action and restart with an indirect free kick for team B.

b. Allow play to continue.

c. Warn A1 at the next stoppage this type of play is inappropriate.

have her way with grass fields, and wear and tear of the fields can create some rather treacherous conditions that might be unsafe. A thorough inspection of the field is necessary to determine if it is safe. If there is a lot of standing water on the field it might not be safe to allow the game to go on. If there are large puddles right in front of the goal(s), it might make for an unsafe condition for the goalkeepers. As the weather gets colder it becomes more important to check for things like ice buildup on the field. Snow might make for near impossible traction even with the best set of cleats. A good indication of a field being too slippery in this case would be to watch the players during their pregame warmups. If they look to be slipping around a lot or if you hear them complaining a lot about it, it might be a good indication the

field is unsafe for play. If that is the case you should abandon the game and file a report with the competition authority. For NFHS matches, the school administrator makes this decision before the match starts.

A good and thorough pregame inspection is a duty the referee crew should not take lightly. It should be accomplished with a good, detailoriented approach that will garner respect from all parties involved. It will be seen as a crew that will afford the same amount of detail and respect to the decisions in the game, and it is much more likely the referee crew’s decisions will be treated with more respect and less dissent because of this. Don’t take this lightly. Vince DeFranco, La Grange, Ill., has been a soccer referee for more than 30 years and was an assessor and an assigner. 

Positional Decisions

By Henry Papa

Officiating a game at the intercollegiate, interscholastic, professional, amateur or youth levels can be made easier for the referee. All the referee has to do is maintain a good viewing position throughout the game regardless of the system of mechanics being used and then make the necessary decisions.

The concept of good viewing position is generally regarded as being close to active play to view not only the players involved, but also to be able to maintain proper eye contact with the assistant referee concerned with overseeing the play sequence. Each system of mechanics defines the guidelines of optimum referee team positions to take during specific set play times during a game as well as at times the play flows up and down the field. Almost without exception these positions ensure the best officiating result.

A good viewing position changes with each situation; sometimes it is level with the ball, sometimes behind the ball, and even sometimes ahead

of the ball. In the attempt to get into and maintain a good viewing position, the referee must be sure not to interfere with the players or the flight of the ball. There will be far less criticism if the referee keeps up with the play, but standing flatfooted 30-40 yards away from the incident is a sure way to get into trouble, not only with the spectators but also with the players and coaches. This is when dissent rears its ugly head and when the referee has to attempt to restore order by issuing cautions or ejections to control the game. The whole problem started because the referee did not attempt to stay in position.

The referee must be located in a good viewing position to get a clear view of the action of the players contesting for possession of the ball. Every referee should make a concerted effort to eliminate guesswork when making a decision by getting into a good viewing position and maintaining such a position for the entire game. The referee must be willing and able to be physically prepared for running

Challenges while the ball is in flight create another level of circumstances for the referee to observe. Proper positioning will give you the best opportunity to make a correct decision.

Watch the Hands

Potential for ball to come off the chest and strike No. 15’s arm, which is unnaturally larger.

The ball may hit the defender’s hand. Is it accidental or a hand ball?

Will the defender hold off No. 15 with the arm?

Will No. 15 push off defender with the arm?

If No. 15 pushes off, will the defender retaliate with the closed fist on his left hand?

Will the defender’s leg extend out and trip No. 15?

CASEPLAYS

Sweep the Leg

Play: A1 is in on the attack within team B’s penalty area and moving on a diagonal from the edge of the area toward the goal. Goalkeeper B2 comes out to cut down the angle. B2 extends the leg and tackles the ball from A1. While doing so, B2 continues the leg extension and trips A1. Ruling: B2 is cautioned for denying a goal-scoring opportunity (DOGSO) and the game is restarted with a penalty kick for team A (NFHS 12-9-1f15; NCAA 12.4.3.8; IFAB 12.3).

In Your Face

Play: A1 attempts to win a position with B2 and clearly holds and impedes movement. B2 shields the ball and tries to break free from the hold. In frustration, B2 strikes A1 in the face with the elbow. Ruling: B2 is ejected for striking the opponent. For NCAA games this would be violent behavior II. The game is restarted with a direct free kick for team B since the hold occurred before the retaliation (NFHS 12-4-1, 12-9-2a; NCAA 12.1.9, 12.4.7.2; IFAB 12.1, 12.3).

In the Way

Play: A1 starts a promising counter-attack, kicks the ball and tries to go past B2. B2 moves into A1’s path and this movement prevents A1 from getting to the ball. This occurs when the ball was not within playing distance of either player and no contact was made between the players. Subsequently, the ball goes to B3, who begins to move toward the goal. Ruling: The referee stops play and awards an indirect free kick for team A (obstruction/ impeding) (NFHS 12-6-1; NCAA 12.2.13; IFAB 12.2).

Multiple Fouls

Play: B1 trips A2 in the attacking third of the field. A2 remains on the ground rubbing the leg. B1 tells A2 to get up so play can be restarted. A3 runs in between B1 and A2 to shield A2. B1 shoves A3 to the ground. Ruling: B1 is cautioned for the pushing incident. The game is restarted with a direct free kick for the original tripping foul (NFHS 12-9-1f10; NCAA 12.4.3.5; IFAB 12.3).

throughout the entire length of the game.

Knowing and following the guidelines of the system of mechanics being used in the particular game, the referee will know there is a recommended location for each in-game incident. Please note the word incident, not violation, was used. An incident is not a rule violation until the referee decides it is. Each incident requires the referee to make one of the following decisions: (1) It is not a rule violation and allow play to continue; (2) It is a marginal rule violation and allow play to continue; (3)It is a rule violation but the referee decides to evoke advantage and signals and possibly verbalizes “Play on.” If the advantage does not materialize, the referee may revoke the decision and penalize the rule violation; (4) It is a rule violation that must be penalized. In that situation the referee must stop the game, signal the direction of the free kick and run into position for the ensuing free kick. If the restart is an indirect free kick, the referee must hold the hand overhead until the ball is touched by another player or goes out of play. The referee must move quickly to a position to again maintain a good viewing position for the restart of play.

Each of the above decisions can be correctly made from a good viewing position. There may be more than one good viewing position, and the referee should know which position to view the play to make the best decision. It is easy to discuss and advise a referee as to what is a good viewing position. However, it is far more difficult to maintain it consistently. The referee must be physically fit for the level of the game and train throughout the year to be ready for each and every season. Referees cannot use a game or games to bring themselves into good physical shape. This is not fair to the players, coaches and spectators.

It takes desire to consistently maintain a good viewing position. This starts at the meal table when the referee eats the proper foods to have

energy and does not overeat before a game. It is easy to eat a little more which results in weight gain. Fat is easy to accumulate but often very difficult to take off. Being overweight makes it more difficult for the referee to keep up with play and get swiftly into the best proper position to oversee the play as it develops. Desire requires a year-round training schedule, not only to get into good physical shape but maintain it throughout the year.

Although there is a critical shortage of officials, each referee should make a prudent decision about the number of assignments accepted on any given day or week. It is not fair to the players for the referee to “save energy” for the next game and walk up and down the field and attempt to observe incidents. Every game played is important to the players and referees should be giving 100 percent of their energy to that game and not saving it for the next. This is especially so during tournaments when there are multiple games each day. All referees should know their physical limitations and not overextend themselves at the expense of the game.

In addition to physical limitations there is a mental limit for a referee. When working multiple games, the referee can become mentally fatigued and begin to deal with incidents in a different manner. What was a foul when the referee was fresh may become a caution because the referee is mentally tired and does not have as much patience as during the first game of the day. This could result in a player being unfairly cautioned and possibly being punished for a future game.

The importance of getting into good viewing positions throughout the game cannot be overemphasized. The ability to do so will play a large part in achieving referee success. Remember presence leads to conviction.

Henry Papa, Mobile, Ala., is a past president of NISOA and national assessor. As a referee he officiated several international matches and NCAA tournaments. 

VISIONINACTION

Guidance for Officials in Challenging Times

There are times when officials need advice from experts who have been there before or who have specific expertise in sports officiating business or legal matters. One of the many ways the National Association of Sports Officials (NASO) helps our members is our one-of-akind Member Information and Consultation Program (MICP). NASO annually provides members with up to three free consultations with one of our advisors or consultants for anything related to sports officials and sports officiating. Never has such access to expert advice and assistance been more needed. Officials are being scrutinized, defamed, assaulted, and threatened as never before at all levels of play.

NASO provides members with up to three free consultations a year. MICP consists of two parts, a free Information Program, and a free Consultation Program where NASO staff and expert consultants provide you with the information and guidance you need to navigate issues such as:

•Alleged defamation

•Criminal background checks

•Contract issues

•Income tax issues

•Assaults on officials

•Liability concerns

Access to articles written by professionals is also included with this benefit. The articles deal with all of today’s most pressing issues, including background checks, independent contractor status, assaults, contracts, and more.

The Member Information and Consultation Program is part of your annual NASO dues and is available as soon as you join. This is a valuable benefit to both new, existing, and returning members. The initial use of the MICP program starts with the NASO staff. Contact us here at NASO at 262-632-5448 for more information.

In addition to the MICP program, NASO members benefit from the nation’s best insurance package. MICP ties into this package and provides a free initial consultation for non-assault civil litigation situations. For assault situations, NASO membership provides up to $4,500 in legal services reimbursement.

Expert information and advice are only a phone call away. Officials all over, at all levels have taken advantage of this program Join NASO today by visiting www.naso.org and choosing the option join/renew. You can also call client services at 1-800-733-6100 or email cservice@naso.org for assistance.

WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER!

ATTENTION REFEREE MAGAZINE SUBSCRIBERS

It’s time to join the rest of us in the National Association of Sports O cials. Not only will you continue to receive the world’s #1 o ciating publication, you’ll enjoy all of the additional benefits NASO members enjoy. Go to naso.org/upgrade2024 to join NASO for the special introductory price of $114 and receive these two FREE books!

BEATING BEHAVIOR BACK BAD

SINCE FANS HAVE BEEN ALLOWED BACK IN SPORTING VENUES, THERE HAS BEEN A NOTICEABLE SPIKE IN POOR BEHAVIOR.

By Leah Berard

Officials have had to crack down on bad behavior from players, coaches and fans more frequently in recent years. Duane Sanchez, Kenmore, Wash.

It’s been four years since the COVID-19 pandemic changed the landscape for sports officials. The youth, prep, college and professional levels saw their seasons taken away, and since play has resumed, officials have had a lot on their plates.

of communication with one another. Although it may be challenging to do this when parents are temporarily blinded by the pressure of their own child’s success and are taking it out on an official, it is still important to hear them out — if what they are saying is constructive, of course. Attempting to educate and setting up a positive platform for dialogue to take place is helpful to sway behavior.

“One thing I loved to do when I was a high school athletic director was turning an uneducated rules argument back on to the parents,” Gessner said. “I’d ask them to explain to me the rule they were arguing, and they had no clue, which also gave some levity to the situation and made them realize what officials are up against.”

Since fans have been allowed back in sporting venues, there has been a noticeable spike in poor behavior at every level of competition. Much of the misconduct has been aimed at officials.

On Aug. 1, 2023, sports administrators from around the world gathered at the NASO Summit in Riverside, Calif., to discuss the increase in poor sportsmanship at sporting events. A panel entitled “Sportsmanship: They’re Doing Something About It” featured Brian Gessner, commissioner of officials for the Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA); Dan Meeson, head of echnical and referee development for the English Football Association; Ron Nocetti, executive director of the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF); and Dana Pappas, director of officiating services for the NFHS. Craig Anderson, executive director of the Illinois High School Association, moderated the panel.

The panelists agreed parents across all sports are acting poorly. “There’s no rational basis when it’s their kids,” Gessner said. He appreciates that parents are passionate about their children but believes in some cases it has become excessive. And it’s certainly not just an American issue; this is happening in youth sports worldwide.

BUILDING THE FOUNDATION THROUGH ONLINE EDUCATION

“We’re all in this together,” Meeson said. His primary focus is onfield matters, including overseeing all training, education development and support for 31,000 referees in England. He said he doesn’t know the answer but wants to be part of solving the problem.

“I don’t think there’s a magic wand for all this,” Meeson said, “but we’re trying desperately to increase people’s knowledge, their understanding and their empathy for how tough officiating can be.”

Panelists shared their approaches for emphasizing good sportsmanship, and not surprisingly, offered similar strategies for teaching the importance of good behavior in sport regardless of the result of a contest.

LENDING AN EMPATHETIC EAR

A conversation between two people begins when they open a line

Online referee education for parents, coaches and players has been helpful in opening eyes to the challenges officials face when it comes to poor sportsmanship. The English Football Association now offers repeat offenders the option of a three-month suspension or a

BEATING BACK BAD BEHAVIOR

two-month suspension while attending an online course about poor sportsmanship and its impact on all. Although he doesn’t think the course will completely eradicate the problem, he hopes parents, coaches and players will think twice before they start verbally abusing an official.

Administrators are the perfect conduits to spread the message that poor sportsmanship won’t be tolerated any longer. Pappas discussed the “Bench Bad Behavior” initiative she spearheaded with the NFHS to combat the problem with recruitment and retention of officials.

“We developed our first officiating consortium in April 2022, and the common theme through all of that was all about behavior,” Pappas said. “It had to do with the behavior of fans and the way we’re treating each other as human beings.”

Social media has been a powerful tool in spreading the positive message, according to Pappas.

“It’s pretty cool from the Federation standpoint when we see somebody else tweeting that message out, or putting it on Facebook, or Snapchat or Instagram,” she said. “If there’s a child who’s playing Little League at five years old, those parents are being exposed to this message because we want

to make that messaging as consistent from group to group and parent to parent.”

UTILIZING TECHNOLOGY

The English Football Association has been testing body cameras on referees since last year, mainly so there is video when sportsmanship turns sour.

“We’re trialing it all over the country in several of our grassroots leagues to capture this poor behavior from coaches and players to say enough is enough,” Meeson said. The devices have had an impact on players, coaches and officials on the sideline. England was slated to continue testing cameras in grassroots games through the end of the 2023-24 season.

With about 120 referees using these cameras on a regular basis, it is vital to afford them maximum levels of protection and safety, and to reinforce that the issue is being taken seriously. Meeson said their recruitment depends on changing the culture of poor sportsmanship. “In time, that’s going to affect people’s enjoyment and confidence levels,” he said, “and we’re going to be left short of not being able to cover enough games because of the abuse.”

PROMOTING POSITIVE PROGRAMMING

This starts with building and nurturing the relationships for all stakeholders in youth

athletics. There is always room for administrators to do a better job at promoting the expectations and responsibilities of athletic directors, such as having someone walk officials to their locker room at halftime and provide them water, as well as making sure they are safely escorted off the field or court after the game. As more responsibilities are added to officials’ job descriptions, including asking fans to leave before continuing with the contest, more strain is being put on the officiating community.

“We have a phrase in Arizona that the officials are responsible for what’s between the lines, and the administrators are responsible for what’s outside the lines,” Gessner said. “But we know these administrators are spread so thin they may have multiple events going on and can’t be at every event for every minute.”

It’s a constant struggle, according to Gessner. Incidents involving fans used to only occur once a year. Then it was once every month. Now, fans are being escorted out of almost every game. “We understand school budgets are being cut back, and we understand that more is going to be asked of the officiating community,” Gessner said, “but there’s going to be a breaking point.”

Gessner recognizes the pivotal role officials play in promoting positive sportsmanship when they see great behavior by fans, parents, players and coaches. Officials in Arizona include instances of good sportsmanship in their evaluations, and they use the data to determine the recipient of a sportsmanship award. He says the program has been well received, with schools bringing their entire teams to the award presentation at season’s end.

“By accentuating the positive, not the negative, we believe we’re starting to turn the corner a little bit in improving sportsmanship,” Gessner said.

Officials are used to being heckled by fans, as seen during a matchup between Snow Hill and Decatur in Snow Hill, Md., in January 2024.

Nocetti, who governs 760,000 high school studentathletes, believes part of the solution is providing resources to schools to help them monitor sportsmanship. As such, the CIF introduced a sportsmanship and fan behavior toolkit — including resources such as pregame scripts on how to greet officials and take them to the locker room and back — which is available to all schools via the federation’s website. The CIF has also released several public service announcements that are played prior to games.

“(The PSAs) were done from the perspective of our students, and it’s powerful,” Nocetti said. “When you put the students out there doing it, fans and parents listen.”

PUTTING POLICIES IN PLACE

Recently, Arizona instituted a crackdown on bad behavior by removing coaches and players who act out of turn. When meeting with administrators back in 2016 and 2017, the datadriven Gessner brought statistics that showed ejections were on the rise. Total ejections, which predominantly include players and coaches, have gone up every year since Arizona started tracking them.

“What’s really disturbing is the coaching ejections,” Gessner said. “These are the adults in the room, and it’s without dispute that fans, players, parents, other coaches and administrators will follow the behavior of the head coach.”

Although implementing a zero-tolerance policy has become more commonplace in the officiating environment, Arizona has implemented one specifically for assistant coaches. “Communication professionalism is something that we promote,” Gessner said, “but typically what we’re finding is our assistant coaches are being sacrificed.” He does not have measurable data on why that is happening but speculates it may have to do more with the club culture. And

Part of an official’s job is to maintain order and prevent fights from breaking out. David Winchester,

San Juan Capistrano, Calif.

although the data points he has suggest they are still struggling to see better sportsmanship overall, they feel the program is making strides and having a positive impact.

Nocetti has enacted a policy he never thought he’d see: asking unruly spectators to leave the contest. The CIF has been pushing the policy with its school administrators and emphasized it’s their responsibility to keep all parties safe during games.

“It’s something we don’t want to have to do, but it’s (the administrator’s) duty to take a fan and remove them from a contest if they’re being that belligerent,” Nocetti said. “And if that happens, they don’t get to come back to the next contest and are done for the season if it happens a second time.”

In addition, Nocetti said they’ve added stricter penalties for sportsmanship violations and ejections for players and coaches.

“It used to be that every time you’re ejected, you sat the next contest, and there was no escalation in those penalties,” Nocetti said. “So what we put into place is the first time it’s a onecontest ban, the second ejection is multiple contests and the third means their season is over.”

They also escalated the penalty for any type of fighting, or what they call “gross unsportsmanlike conduct.” For example, a player loses eligibility for three to six contests with the first offense, and their season is over after a second fight in the same season. However, there is

zero tolerance for the coaches. If they engage in a single fight, their season is over. Nocetti has noticed positive change, such as coaches training players to take a knee when a fight starts to break out.

Lastly, with increased frequency of referee abuse, the CIF swiftly put in place a bylaw that would better protect officials.

“We didn’t want to wait until the next year, because it takes anywhere from 12 to 18 months for us to put a new bylaw in place,” Nocetti said. “With the cooperation of our 10 section commissioners and our executive committee, we immediately put into place that any fan that physically assaults an official in the state of California is permanently banned from ever attending another high school athletic event in our state.”

As the old saying goes, “Teamwork makes the dream work,” and Pappas believes it is everybody’s responsibility to right the ship. Pappas said about 33-45% of all officials are brand new and “don’t know what they don’t know.” Everyone needs to hold each other accountable in the sports community, from administrators to athletic directors to parents to fans, if measurable results are going to happen.

Leah Berard, St. Paul, Minn., officiated international rugby and now officiates high school and college football. 

HESTON QUAN

COME ON, LET’S DISH!

Try This Recipe for a Great Plate Meeting

By Scott Tittrington

Whether they realize it or not, umpires can do several things before they ever put a ball into play to mess up that day’s ballgame for themselves and their crews.

It’s often said coaches begin assessing umpires as soon as they first walk onto the field. And if that isn’t the case, you can certainly bet plenty of assumptions will be made just moments later during the pregame plate meeting.

What seems like a basic, routine endeavor can have drastic consequences if it’s not handled properly by the umpiring crew. As the saying goes, you never get a second chance to make a first impression, and the plate meeting is typically when the first interaction between umpires and coaches takes place. When that meeting concludes soon after (more on this later), your hope as an umpire should be the two coaches are walking back to their dugouts thinking, “We’re in good

hands today” and not “This is a crap show waiting to happen.”

On Time and on Point

The first element of a successful plate meeting is conducting it when you are supposed to. There’s no better way to get off on the wrong foot with both coaches than to make them wait. Failure of you and your partner(s) to show up at the plate on time is a severe case of disrespect and a recipe for disaster.

Just as important is how you look

A clear, concise plate meeting will allow plate umpire Dan Baldino, San Dimas, Calif., and base umpire Bruce Daniels, Hemet, Calif., to obtain all the necessary information they need to work the game and set the stage for a professional day at the ballpark.

when you get there. Never step onto the field until you are game ready. Shirts need to be tucked in. Jackets zippered. Shoes tied. Hats on. (And it should go without saying, all of the pregame uniform preparation that should have taken place such as shining your shoes, ironing your uniform and taking care of three days’ worth of facial stubble.) When you walk on the field, you should look like you are ready to handle your business.

Introductions

Once the coaches wander out of the dugout and make their way to the dirt circle, the first order of business is saying hello. Remember, this is a professional relationship. It’s not a time to show you are best buddies or mortal enemies. Give each coach a firm handshake. Look both in the eye (and if you are wearing sunglasses, remove them before the coaches arrive). Introduce yourself by name. It’s OK to address them by name, but only if you know the names of both coaches. Coaches are paranoid by nature, and if you address one by name and the other simply as “Coach,” you can bet the latter is going to take note of the more collegial greeting you offered the adversary.

The Business at Hand

Once introductions between the coaches and all members of the umpiring crew are complete, the plate meeting becomes the plate umpire’s show. And this show should be a simple three-act play: lineups, ground rules and safety/sportsmanship.

Take the lineup card from the home coach first and scan it for all necessary and pertinent information. Does every player in the starting lineup have name, uniform number and position number listed? Is it a traditional nine-player lineup or is there a designated hitter? Are all of the substitutes listed? Confirm with the coach the key elements — “Smith is your DH in the three hole, hitting for Jones, the pitcher?” Perform this same lineup scan with the visiting coach, announce the lineups are official, then move on to ground rules.

Ask the home coach to take you around the field. Allow the coach to explain whether there are any subtleties involving the dugouts, the bullpens, fencing or netting that is out of play, the location of scoreboards, light poles, overhanging trees and tarps and anything else that may require explanation. Once the coach is finished, ask any questions regarding areas in which you may still have questions. Confirm with the visiting coach the ground rules are understood and agreed upon.

Finally, depending on the level of game you are working, ask both coaches if their teams are legally and properly equipped, mention the need for good sportsmanship and send them on their way with another handshake. It’s fine to say something like, “Good luck” or “Let’s have a great day,” but nothing more than that.

Key Considerations

While the plate meeting is very much a “Just the facts, ma’am” operation, it doesn’t mean everyone should stand at the plate acting like robots. Some personality is fine, so long as it doesn’t distract from the professional atmosphere you need to establish and the job duties you need to perform. That said, here are some items to take note of before you and your partners take the field:

•As already mentioned, the plate meeting is the plate umpire’s show. That umpire is the one who runs the meeting, asks the necessary questions and directs the entire enterprise. The base umpire(s) are like children in the 1950s — other than the initial introductions, they don’t speak unless they are spoken to. A good plate umpire, before the meeting ends, will ask his or her partners whether they have anything to add, and this is the opportunity to have any lingering questions addressed. Wait patiently for that opening and don’t prematurely overstep onto the plate umpire’s turf.

•The plate meeting is not the time to conduct a rules clinic. If a coach asks a question about a specific rule, feel free to briefly address it. However, it is not the

SURVEY SAYS …

According to the 2023 National Officiating Survey powered by Referee.com, baseball umpires overwhelmingly believe the biggest sportsmanship issues are taking place in competitive youth baseball, with 53.19% of respondents singling out that level of play. High school baseball is next on the list at 15.79%, followed by adult recreational (14.03%), youth recreational (13.37%), professional (2.11%) and college (1.51%).

TOOLS

Baseball Umpires Quiz

Are you a high school baseball umpire looking to sharpen your rulebook knowledge during the heart of the 2024 season?

The 2024 Referee Rules Challenge for Baseball Umpires is available online at referee.com. The free, multiple-choice quiz focuses exclusively on the 2024 NFHS rulebook and is sponsored by the National Association of Sports Officials and is prepared by the editors of Referee magazine.

QUICKTIP

Rule No. 1 as a plate umpire is to stay safe. This is one of the key reasons why umpires are instructed to work in the “slot” when calling pitches. In addition to offering an unobstructed view of the arriving pitch, it’s also the safest place to be in avoiding foul balls that come directly back off the bat.

So what to do if catcher shifts inside and doesn’t give you a good slot to work in? Do not try to move further outside. This will put you at greater risk of injury, and also does you no favors as it creates an unfamiliar vantage point for looking at and assessing pitches. Instead, adjust upward. While there are some tradeoffs to such a position, including making the ability to call the low pitch a little more challenging, it still provides the same consistent view from the inside edge of the plate. And, back to Rule No. 1 — it will, for the most part, still keep you safe.

TEST YOURSELF

In each question, decide which answer is correct for NFHS, NCAA or pro rules. Solutions: p. 85

1. With R1 on first and no one out, B2 hits a low line drive at F3, who traps the ball for “no catch.” R1, believing the ball was caught, returns to first and is on the base when F3 touches the base before B2 arrives and then tags R1

a. B2 is out, removing the force against R1, who is safe.

b. Both runners were forced to advance during the play, so both runners are out.

c. R1 is out for interfering with the play by running the wrong direction. B2 is out on the tag of first for a double play.

d. R1 is out as soon as he touches first base because B2 was entitled to the base. The ball is dead and B2 is placed at first.

2. Umpires call an infield fly that is allowed to fall to the ground untouched.

a. The ball is dead, the batter is out, and all runners need to retouch their bases.

b. Call time, the batter is out and all runners are awarded one base.

c. The ball is dead and the batter is awarded first base. Any runners advance one base if forced.

d. The ball remains live, the batter is out and any runners advance at their own risk.

3. When taking the sign before assuming the set position, the pitcher must have the pitching hand at the side, on the hip or behind the pitcher’s body with the ball in the glove or the pitching hand. Then prior to delivery of the pitch from a set position, the hands must come together in front of the pitcher’s body.

a. All of the above is true.

b. Only part of the above is true.

c. None of the above is true.

4. Obstruction is treated differently on plays at home plate than those at other bases.

a. True.

b. False.

umpiring crew’s responsibility or job description to initiate discussion or drone on about proper use of courtesy runners, base awards, charged conferences or anything else.

•Save the comedy routine for Open Mic Night at the Chuckle Hut. This doesn’t mean you and your partners can’t share in a laugh if one of the coaches makes a joke or cracks wise about something. Again, you aren’t robots. But allow the coaches to set that tone if they want to go there. It’s not your job to try to loosen them up if they have their intensity amps turned up to 11.

•Brevity is your friend. On a good day, you’re going to spend between 90 minutes and three hours

on the field, depending on your level of play and the number of innings required to complete an official game. No need to unnecessarily add to that number. The coaches are ready to play and you need to be ready to work. Conducting your plate meeting business shouldn’t be so tedious the attendees are looking for the nearest clock. If your plate meeting is taking more than 2-3 minutes, you are doing it wrong. Get in, get out and get on with it.

Scott Tittrington is an associate editor at Referee. He umpires college and high school baseball, and officiates college and high school basketball and high school football. 

Good Luck Legislating Lefties

Life isn’t fair, and neither is baseball. Case in point? The handful of advantages a left-handed pitcher enjoys compared to his right-handed counterpart, especially when there are only two umpires on the field.

Let’s take a look at some of the rules a left-handed pitcher will often toy with knowing there are only so many eyes at so many angles, and also address which umpires on the field are responsible for policing certain activities. In each play, F1 is a lefthanded pitcher, is working out of the set position, there is a runner on first base and nobody out.

Play 1: On three consecutive pitches, F1 comes to a full, discernible stop before delivering a pitch to B2. With a 2-1 count on the batter, F1 starts his motion before coming to a complete stop and steps toward and throws to first base. The offensive team’s head coach yells, “That’s a balk! He didn’t stop!” Meanwhile, F3 tags out R1 before he returns to first base. Ruling 1: This is a legal pickoff attempt and R1 is out. A pitcher must only come to a stop in the set position if he is delivering a pitch (NFHS 6-1-3, 6.1.3H; NCAA 9-1b; pro 5.07a2).

Who makes the call? With a left-handed pitcher and U1 in the B position, both umpires have a clear view of F1’s hands and should be aware of whether he legally stops or not. Also, at least one umpire should issue a warning to the offensive team coach about yelling for a balk while the ball is live.

Play 2: F1 comes to a full, discernible stop, lifts his non-pivot foot as if to begin his pitching motion, steps at approximately a 45-degree angle between home plate and first base and (a) makes a pickoff throw to first base, or (b) delivers a pitch. Ruling 2: Language regarding a 45-degree angle appears in the NCAA rulebook, and while it is not in the NFHS rulebook, it is mentioned in the NFHS casebook. Both citations stipulate a pitcher must step directly and gain ground toward a base in an attempt to pick off a runner. In NCAA, “directly” is interpreted to mean within a 45-degree angle measuring from the pivot foot toward the base the pitcher is throwing to (9-1a6). In NFHS, it is a balk if the pitcher fails to step with the non-pivot foot directly toward a base when throwing there in an attempt to put

out or drive back a runner, with the casebook addressing this as F1 must step to the first-base side of a 45-degree angle between the center of the pitcher’s plate and between home and first base (6-2-4b, 6.2.4 Sit. B). In pro, he may throw to any base provided he steps directly toward such base before making the throw (5.07d). Therefore, in all codes, this ruling is a judgment by the umpires in both (a) and (b) as to whether F1 has made a legal pickoff attempt, has legally delivered a pitch or has committed a balk.

Who makes the call? With U1 in the B position, it is almost impossible for this umpire to determine whether F1 is stepping toward the plate or first base based on the available viewing angle. The plate umpire will have a better angle and view on this play, especially when F1 steps directly toward the plate but throws the ball to first base. Inevitably, there will be a first-base coach yelling that F1 has balked when he plays fast and loose with this angle and then throws to first base. If working an NFHS game and the coach mentions “the 45,” remind him that no such rule language exists at that level.

Play 3: F1 comes to a full, discernible stop, lifts his non-pivot foot as if to begin his pitching motion and instead makes a pickoff throw to first base. During the pickoff motion, (a)the toes of F1’s right foot cross the front edge of the pitching plate, (b) his entire right foot crosses the front edge of the pitching plate, or (c) his entire right foot crosses the back edge of the pitching plate. Ruling 3: This is a legal pickoff move in both (a) and (b), so long as all other provisions making it a legal move are met. In (c), it is a balk in all three rule codes (NFHS 6-2-5; NCAA 9-3l; pro 6.02a1 Cmt.).

Who makes the call? Again, U1 in the B position does not have an ideal angle — the best angle on the entire field actually belongs to the first-base coach. That said, if F1 clearly violates and swings his free foot completely behind his pivot foot and the pitching plate, U1 would be the umpire who would notice. The plate umpire has no frame of reference to determine whether the entire foot has broken this plane. And again, when a misinformed

A left-handed pitcher is allowed to raise his non-pivot foot in the set position and throw to first base.

However, if the pitcher does not gain any distance or direction toward the base with his non-pivot foot, this is a balk.

first-base coach yells about a balk, explain it is not illegal unless the entire foot breaks the plane, and not just a part of said foot.

Play 4: F1 comes to a full, discernible stop. He lifts his non-pivot

foot, places it back down in the same position from where he started and (a) delivers a pitch, or (b) makes a pickoff attempt at first base. Ruling 4: Legal in (a), balk in (b). In order for the pickoff move to be legal, the pitcher must

CASEPLAYS

Frisk Me Not

Play: The umpire observes the home team’s third-base coach keeping score via an app on his smart phone. Ruling: Not allowed. In NFHS, while in a coach’s box, a coach may only have in his possession a stopwatch, a hard copy of the rulebook and a scorebook. In NCAA and pro, the only specific prohibition is electronic equipment (NFHS 3-31h; NCAA 5-1f Note 1; pro interp.).

Too Much Talking

Play: The coach changes pitchers in the third inning. He then begins to return to the dugout. After making it halfway to the foul line, he turns around and goes back to the mound to talk further. Ruling: In NFHS, that is legal and only one conference is charged. The conference is not considered to be concluded until the coach crosses the foul line. In NCAA and pro, a second trip is charged. The conference is considered to be concluded when the coach leaves the dirt area of the pitching mound (NFHS 3-4-3, 3.4.3; NCAA 9-4d; pro 5.10l).

Don’t Come Back

Play: In the third inning, Jones slips while delivering a pitch and grabs his hamstring. His coach comes out and Jones says his leg is only slightly tight and it will loosen up. The coach sends Jones to play first base and brings in Smith to pitch. Smith was not warming up and needs extra throws. Ruling: The umpire will allow the substitution and allow Smith as many warmup throws as he needs. Jones may remain in the game, but in NFHS he cannot return to pitch. In NCAA and pro, Jones can later return to pitch (NFHS 3-1-2, 6-2-2 Exc.; NCAA 5-5b Note 1; pro interp.).

Foul Aided

Play: B2 is batting as R2 attempts to steal third. F2 interferes with B2, who hits a foul ball.  Ruling: When the umpire observes interference and the ball batted, it is not immediately dead; play continues. Because the batter did not reach first base, the interference penalty is enforced. R2 is awarded third and B2 is awarded first (NFHS 8-1-1e; NCAA 8-2e1; pro 5.05b3 Cmt.).

step directly toward the base (NFHS 6-2-4b; NCAA 9-3c; pro 6.02a3). Placing the non-pivot foot in the same spot from which it started does not satisfy this requirement. A commonly used phrase is that the pitcher must achieve “distance” and “direction.”

Who makes the call? While both the plate umpire and U1 may have difficulty judging the direction of the step, each should be able to determine whether there was any distance obtained or if the pitcher simply returned his non-pivot foot to the same location. As such, either umpire conceivably could make the balk ruling in this scenario. 

If a left-handed pitcher makes this movement after being in the set position, is he allowed to make a pickoff throw to first base, or is it a balk if he does so?

By Jon Bible

Atsome point, every amateur umpire will have to deal with a flare-up — a term I’ll use to encompass a broad spectrum of events. To name a few, a fielder and runner square off after a hard slide or tag. A batter who’s hit by a pitch starts for the mound. A catcher gets into it with a batter looking back to steal his signals. A pitcher goes after a batter who hits a home run and stands there admiring the ball’s flight or flips his bat. Your partner ejects a coach and chest-bumping ensues. Players get into a fight.

How do you handle these situations?

If possible, I think it’s best not to grab, push, pull, encircle, etc., players and coaches. That’s routinely done in professional baseball, but at the amateur level this can seem overly aggressive, especially the younger the people involved are. Some amount is OK in college ball, where we’re typically dealing with adults (technically, anyway), but mom, dad

How to Handle Fight Night

and others aren’t likely to be happy about it in lower levels.

When players get in a combative posture, get between them and use a commanding voice to tell them to knock it off. Usually, using your body as a barrier and perhaps nudging them apart will do the trick. If you use your arms, just extend them to keep them apart. Don’t use profanity, and keep your voice modulated. Once they see a blue or black shirt, they’ll likely calm down. In my experience, by the time I got to this point, a coach was usually on the way out to protect his player from not only the opponent but an ejection.

If a batter hit by a pitch looked like he wanted to go after the pitcher, I’d get in front of the plate and escort him toward first base. If I used my arm, it was, at most, to put it around his waist or back as if we were old buddies while walking him toward the bag. If he tried to turn around like he wanted to go toward the mound, I’d block him with my body.

See “Fight Night” p.54

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Fight Night continued from p.52

If a partner ejects a coach who becomes combative, it’s your role in a two-umpire crew to get them separated. In a larger crew, it’s the crew chief’s responsibility, unless he’s the ejecting umpire; then the duty falls to the next-senior umpire. Sometimes, unfortunately, people are too lacking in intestinal fortitude to do this. I’ve often told of a situation in a college game where I ejected the coach, who went bonkers, and my partner (two-umpire crew) didn’t move a muscle to help out. It took forever to get the coach off the field, and I came close to threatening a forfeit. Fortunately, I was in a position to ensure I never worked with that umpire again.

It’s best to handle this like we would players squaring off. Insert yourself between the coach and umpire and try to nudge the coach away, telling him, “It’s over, let’s go.” Don’t grab him and pull him away. I did this with an assistant coach several years ago and we both lost our balance and almost went to the ground. Imagine how that would have looked. If we get too physical with coaches in these situations, we can pour gas on the fire and give them an opportunity to turn on us.

laughable affairs where people stick their jaw out, make threats and act macho, all the while hoping someone will intervene before they have to put up their dukes.

Also, don’t wrap your arms around a player because that makes him a sitting duck to be blasted by someone else.

If a fight breaks out, I don’t advocate trying to stop it. My philosophy was that if I can defuse a potentially volatile situation without putting me in danger or making things more combustible, I’d do that. But I never thought that when I signed on to be an umpire, being a fight referee was part of the deal.

to be more accurate in identifying people who should be ejected and suspended for fighting or coming off the bench to join in one. Sometimes state or local associations can examine video and identify who should be suspended, but often they can’t, or won’t, and then it falls on us. We don’t want to erroneously eject and suspend someone or miss someone who should be penalized.

Fights are rare in amateur baseball, especially today when rules call for suspensions for combatants and third parties who leave their position or the dugout to join in. But they do occur. By “fight,” I mean something akin to a boxing match, with real punches, not one of those

Once in a college game, the batter kept looking back at the catcher as if to steal his signs, the catcher finally erupted, and the next thing I knew they were trading punches. Both benches emptied and there were fights all over the infield. We tried to break up players rolling around on the ground punching each other. Big mistake. I got knocked down, ended up with players on top of me and suffered spike lacerations. After that I vowed that if it happened again I’d step back, let the coaches break things up and write down numbers of people to eject.

Keeping out of the fray is not only safer for us, but it allows us

If you try to break up a fight, be careful how you do it. If you come in from behind a player so he can’t see you, he may turn around and pop you before he realizes who you are. Someone in front of him who’s trying to hit him may inadvertently (or not) get you. Keep people in front of you, if you can, so they can see your umpire uniform.

Also, don’t wrap your arms around a player because that makes him a sitting duck to be blasted by someone else. I did this in a football game once and (rightfully) got royally chewed out by my crew chief afterward.

Jon Bible, Austin, Texas, worked seven NCAA Division I College World Series. In 2019, he was inducted into the National College Baseball Hall of Fame in Lubbock, Texas. 

If a fight breaks out during your game, keeping out of the fray is not only the safer option, but allows the umpires to be more accurate in identifying people who should be ejected and suspended for fighting or coming off the bench to join in one.

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GETTING IT RIGHT

INSPIRATION, MOTIVATION, ELEVATION

GHSA Nets Falcons Grant

By Joe Jarosz

Time and again the solutions for officiating shortages have been explored at meetings and conferences across this country and around the globe. The theme “Sustain Officials, Retain Officials” will highlight the 2024 Sports Officiating Summit in Atlanta and one of its presenting sponsors, the Georgia High School Association (GHSA), was recently on the receiving end of a grant to address recruitment and assist in starting new officiating careers.

a critical need to increase the number of officials at the youth and high school level and we want to inspire other NFL teams and corporate entities to create similar programs.”

The Atlanta Falcons Youth Fund strives to increase the time kids spend in physical activity, and an increase in trained referees will ensure an ongoing safe and competitive environment for young athletes.

Patrick Shanley, a member of the fund’s committee, said the fund “is proud to make this grant to help remove barriers, encouraging more people to become officials and keeping student-athletes across the state involved in sports.”

“We are extremely excited about this new grant from the Arthur M.Blank Family Foundation and the Atlanta Falcons Youth Fund,” GHSA Executive Director Dr. Robin Hines said. “We started working on this project last spring and I really appreciate both (Blank Foundation program officer) Aidan Mullaney and (Atlanta Falcons vice president of community relations) Chris Millman for their persistence to make sure this became a reality. Nationally and here in Georgia, we are in dire need of recruiting, training and developing a pool of young officials, and this grant will be earmarked to address that need. I am overjoyed that this has become a reality.”

Going Green

The Cambridge Minor Hockey Association (CMH) in Ontario is taking a step to protect its young referees from abuse. A green arm band policy was enacted at minor hockey associations in Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo in November 2023.

Referees between the ages of 14-16 wear the arm bands to identify themselves as new officials. When there is a disagreement on the ice, coaches and players are instructed to address the more experienced referee working the game, not those wearing the band.

“These are first-year kids that are going to make mistakes, so we don’t want coaches and players addressing them,” CMH President John Morton said. “You lose kids in the first year of officiating because they haven’t learned how to deal with it.”

SOURCE: CAMBRIDGETODAY.CA

Above and Beyond

Glenn Laudenslager III, who has been umpiring and scheduling umpires for adult softball games in Monroe, Conn., for the past 32 years, was recently recognized for his dedication to the sport. Laudenslager received the Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award from the Connecticut Recreation and Parks Association in November 2023.

Missy Orosz, director of the Monroe Parks and Recreation Department, nominated Laudenslager for the honor.

With the stated goal of “increasing the number of youth sports officials in the state of Georgia,” the Atlanta Falcons Youth Fund awarded a $50,000 grant to GHSA during the 2023 high school football state championships in December at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The Atlanta Falcons Youth Fund is an associate-led arm of the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation.

“The Atlanta Falcons and the Georgia High School Association have been longtime partners in support of youth and high school football and we are proud to work with them to tackle this important issue,” Falcons CEO Rich McKay said. “Our sport is facing

Numerous surveys and studies from across the officiating industry continue to show that barriers to entry plague the pipeline and are a leading cause of officiating shortages.

“We will be using this grant to help defer some of the initial cost in becoming a new contest official,” said Ernie Yarbrough, GHSA coordinator of officiating. “We hope this grant will help navigate that issue in the recruiting process. We have a great partnership with the Falcons and along with the Arthur Blank Foundation they have really stepped up for us.” Joe Jarosz is an assistant editor at Referee He officiates college and high school football, college and high school basketball, and high school baseball. 

“Glenn has a gentle soul and loves softball so much,” Orosz said. “He is there for our Friday night program every week. ... At times he can be seen umpiring if necessary and handling any situation that can arise.

“What makes Glenn so unique is that back in the spring of 2019 he suffered a stroke which left him paralyzed on one side. He didn’t let that stop him, even though he had to miss the rest of that season. He worked so hard from the hospital, answering calls, doing emails, scheduling games, which forced him in therapy to go the extra mile to work harder.”

SOURCE: MONROE SUN

Have you heard an inspirational or motivational officiating story?

Send your ideas to

GettingItRight@referee.com

Atlanta Falcons VP of Community Relations Chris Millman (middle) presented the Atlanta Falcons Youth Fund grant to GHSA Executive Director Robin Hines (left) and GHSA Coordinator of Officiating Ernie Yarbrough at MercedesBenz Stadium in Atlanta Dec. 13, 2023, during the GHSA football championships.

TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK

Ask the Crew to Accurately Rule

By Bill Thornburgh

Assoon as we receive an assignment, we engage in teamwork by communicating with our partners, choosing our uniform, and planning travel and arrival time for a match. From the get-go, we know we are a part of the officiating team. Hopefully, our goal is to facilitate the volleyball match — working together as a team to be fair and to get the calls right. So what happens as we prepare to take our assigned positions that can contradict true teamwork?

Although volleyball officials have preferences and feel as though they may be stronger as first referee (R1) or second referee (R2), it is clear there is added pressure when assigned as the R1. After all, you are most visible and in control of the match. The decisions of the R1 and the tempo (or flow) established set the tone for what is to come.

The pressure could make an R1 think and do things that detract from performance or break away from being a member of the team. When in the spotlight some R1s may want to show others they are in charge. They

may feel a quick decision is the best decision and it will show others they are capable. A word of caution though — going alone can be dangerous. And don’t forget, a team is strongest when its individual parts are working together.

Of course, each member of the team has individual responsibilities to be fulfilled, but there are also responsibilities that overlap, and teamwork can be instrumental in getting a call correct during play and at the end of a rally. We must allow our team to perform its assigned responsibilities, but have opinions

There are certain times during a match when the entire crew must get together to provide information in order to accurately make a decision. Here, Steven Petesch (center), Seattle, calls over Washington officials (from left) Harmony Tialavea, Spanaway; Robyn Filimaua, Bothell; and Chase Ekins-Bulich, Seattle, to discuss the play and get input from the entire crew.

on the things we see outside of our “normal” purview. The R2 can help the R1 with an informal signal, or in certain cases, a whistle. Additionally, good eye contact and certain body language from line judges can be extremely helpful when deciding whether or not play continues during or at the end of the rally. But understand the obvious: R1s have to look at their teammates to gather this information during play or at the end of the rally.

My experience has led me to the conclusion that rarely does anything good come from rushing a decision, whistle and signal. The R1 should slow down, gather information from the team, then communicate the decision to match participants. The following scenarios are common — where a quick whistle by the R1 or not gathering information before signaling can create issues.

During Play

Pancake ball. A ball is falling short and the referees see a player diving in to make a play on the ball. The R1 thinks the ball hit the floor and whistles quickly, signaling ball down. The R1 did not look at the R2 for a head nod or listen to their opinion through the headset (e.g. up, up, up or good, good, good). Also, the quick action by the R1 did not allow the use of information from the line judges — in this case, no down ball signal.

The R1 allows play to continue. The R1 did not look at the R2 for assistance. However, the R2 is authorized to whistle this if the R1 does not acknowledge help and is certain the ball was down. Additionally, the R1 likely did not look to the line judges to gather information from them, which would have been the “ball in” signal.

Touch/no touch (four hits). The R1 sees the attack hit and sees the ball hit the top band of the net, where there is a blocker (or blockers). The R1 immediately whistles and signals four hits. The R1 did not look at the R2 for a head nod, meaning they thought there was a touch. In matches where headsets are in use, maybe the whistle was too quick and the R2’s opinion the ball was touched by the blocker was not able to be used by the R1. The R1

allows play to continue. This is because the R1 did not look at the R2 for an informal four hits (or head shaking “no touch”).

Important notes. When an R1 goes alone or whistles quickly, it does not mean an incorrect decision. If truly close whether the ball was up or down, or blocked or not, we should always anticipate one of the teams will challenge when CRS is in use. So whether or not there is good communication may not necessarily lead to the correct decision. Other plays during a rally where teammates’ information and good communication are beneficial include antenna faults and back-row faults.

Suggestion for improvement. Use all the information you can to make the best decision possible. This will increase the likelihood of getting the call correct.

End of Play

Touch/no touch (ball out). The R1 sees the attack hit and the ball clearly lands out of bounds. An immediate touch signal by the R1 without gathering information from the R2 or from the line judges can create a tense situation. Inevitably, the coach who lost the point will want to know who touched the ball and will likely question why you are the only one calling touch. It is important to remember that the R2 has an opinion and will be the one prepared to communicate with either bench. Also, the line judges typically have better views of touches. If no one else on the team is saying (headsets) or signaling touch, there may not have been one.

Oppositely, the R1 whistles and signals ball out before looking at the R2 and line judges. What if the R2 comes up with a touch or you notice a line judge (or both) signaling touch after you have awarded a point to the other team? Do you change your call or do you stick to your guns? If this is the case, you either look bad for rushing, not gathering information and changing your mind. Or the losing coach will want to know why you are not accepting help from your teammates, which is not a good look (especially if they challenge and you are incorrect).

SIDELINE

PAVO Honors Voeck, Schopp and Pufahl

Each year, PAVO selects one individual to receive the Honor Award, PAVO’s highest award, which recognizes someone who has worked in promoting officiating through PAVO (or through a local affiliated board) for at least 10 years. On Dec. 16, 2023, at the PAVO Convention in Tampa, Fla., PAVO recognized Julie Voeck as the newest recipient. Voeck currently serves as PAVO president and the NCAA women’s volleyball secretary-rules editor. She also served on the NASO board from 2015-19.

PAVO also recognized Marigay Schopp as the PAVO Excellence in Service Award recipient, which is given each year to honor someone who gives generously of his/her time, and presented Anne Pufahl with a special PAVO appreciation award during the Convention.

From left, former NCAA women’s volleyball secretary-rules editor Anne Pufahl, NCAA women’s volleyball secretary-rules editor and PAVO president Julie Voeck, and PAVO executive director Katy Meyer at the 2023 PAVO National Convention in Tampa, Fla.

BY THE NUMBERS

11,624

The number of fans who attended the inaugural match of the Pro Volleyball Federation at the CHI Center in Omaha on Jan. 24, setting the attendance record for a professional volleyball match in the United States. The Atlanta Vibe beat the Omaha Supernovas, 3-2. The referees for the match were Devonie McLarty and Michelle Prater.

VOLLEYBALL

TEST YOURSELF

In each of the following you are given a situation and possible answer(s). You are to decide which answer(s) are correct for NFHS, NCAA or USAV rules, which might vary. Solutions: p. 85

1. A ball in the plane of the net is contacted simultaneously by A1 and B2, both front-row players. The ball falls out of bounds on team A’s side of the net.

a. Team A wins the rally.

b. Team B wins the rally.

c. Replay the rally.

2. What is the default length of timeouts?

a. 30 seconds.

b. 60 seconds.

c. 75 seconds.

d. 90 seconds.

3. (NFHS and NCAA only) If an intermission is used between the second and third sets, what is the maximum duration?

a. Three minutes.

b. Five minutes.

c. Seven minutes.

d. 10 minutes.

4. In which of the following cases is it illegal to reach beyond the net to block a ball?

a. The ball is falling near the net and no member of the attacking team can make a legal play on it.

b. The block contact occurs simultaneously with the attack hit.

c. The opponents have completed their three team hits.

d. It is never legal to reach across the net and block a ball that is completely located on the opponent’s side of the court.

5. While in the front zone, team A’s libero contacts the ball using an overhand finger pass (setting action). A1, a back-row player, who is completely behind the attack line, contacts the ball while the ball is completely above the top of the net. The ball lands in the opponent’s court.

a. Loss of rally/point to team A.

b. Loss of rally/point to team B.

c. Replay.

6. Who of the following may stand in front of the team bench during play?

a. Head coach only.

b. Head coach and one assistant coach.

c. Head coach and multiple assistant coaches.

Back-row attack, block or reaching over (resulting in a point). A close play happens at the net and both referees need to know the position of the setter, the position of the ball in relation to the net and if the ball was touched by either team. The R1 whistles a back-row attack or block, but the player was in the front row. Had the R1 looked at the R2 not providing help (BRA or BRB signal), or communicated through headsets (e.g. Is he/she front or back row? Are we good?), this mistake could have been avoided.

The R1 whistles and signals reaching over the net, thinking the blocking team interfered with play before or during the action of playing the ball. This play always excites coaches because they may question the position of the ball and/ or whether the ball was actually touched. It can be a tough call. The R1 should use the partner’s opinion because the partner has a different angle on the play. Perhaps a brief pause would have allowed the R1 to notice the R2 was not making an informal reaching over signal.

The R1 allows play to continue for each option listed above without looking for help from the R2. This is a situation when communicating with the R2 can make both of you look good — see the R2’s help and whistle it — showing good communication and teamwork. However, this is another case where the R2 can provide assistance and if the R1 does not acknowledge it, and R2 is certain a fault has occurred, the R2 can whistle for back-row attack or backrow block.

Ball in/out. The R1 sees the ball land close to one (or both) of the boundary lines. The R1 whistles and immediately signals “in.” However, the line judge on that corner signals “out” or the R1 whistles and immediately signals “out.” However, the line judge on that corner signals “in.” Or the R1 sees the ball land in a coffin corner and notices the signal of one line judge. The R1 immediately accepts the call of that line judge without looking back to the second line judge. What if they were making the opposite signal?

The questions to ask in each scenario are: Do you keep your call or do you change your call? What is the perception of players, coaches and fans when this happens?

Important notes. By pausing for a moment at the end of a rally, the R1 may see a head nod (yes or no), see an informal signal (or not) or hear the opinion of the R2 through headsets. A brief pause at the end of a rally would allow the R1 to gather the line judges’ opinions based on their movement and signal (or lack of a signal). The R1 can show better teamwork with the R2 by looking for out-of-the-norm change in positions and making eye contact.

The R1 should make every attempt to make eye contact with line judges when pancakes occur, balls that go out which may or may not have been touched and on close line decisions.

In regard to line calls and use of line judges — it is important to have an opinion on where the ball lands, but you must accept that line judges almost always have a better view of the line. So allow the ball to land, make eye contact with the line judge(s), then make a final decision. An advanced technique is to use cues, such as player/team movement and player/team reactions. Often, the players know who won the point, so why not use them? Sometimes even when we do everything the “right” way, when plays are close or at a crucial point in the match, teams will challenge when CRS is in use. So good communication and teamwork does not necessarily equate to a correct decision.

Suggestion for improvement. Gather information from your partner and your line judges before rushing into a decision. It is better to be a little slow and correct, than to be fast and incorrect or have to change the outcome.

Bill Thornburgh, Shelbyville, Ky., is a National USAV and PAVO referee, as well as a FIVB International referee. He works in the Big Ten, Atlantic Coast, Southeastern and other D-I conferences around the Midwest and also works the Pro Volleyball Federation. He is an assistant professor of education at Eastern Kentucky University. 

Control the Controllables

By Brad Tittrington

There are so many things happening around us we are unable to control when we officiate. And yet, we often spend way too much time and energy worrying about those things, when we have no power to change them. The best officials in the world are able to shut off the things they are powerless over and simply focus on the task at hand. Here are things we should do that are completely within our control in order to make sure we work the best matches and put ourselves in the best possible scenarios to succeed.

Maintain Your Schedule

How many of us complain about our officiating schedule? At times, I think we all have an ego that says we should be working better matches or should be advancing farther in the state tournament or working better

conferences. But how many of us are willing to take the steps to get those assignments? Many times, it takes helping out an assigner somewhere along the line that helps you get your foot in the door to those plum assignments. But all too often, we forget to block a date in our calendar or we block so many dates in our calendar that we are never available for those opportunities. One of my colleagues said a little while back, “The best ability is availability.” If we are never open or available, it is hard for our assigners to use us. And the less available we are, the less likely we are to get asked. The most important thing for us to do is to make sure we update our calendars, keep availability for those opportunities that don’t come along very often, and jump at the chance when they do. We can control our responsibility, we cannot control what assigners are thinking or

how they make assignments. But if we give ourselves more opportunity to be used, we increase our odds of being selected.

Work Like Someone Is Watching

In today’s society, someone is always watching us work. The one time we think we can take a match off, relax a little bit and just coast might be the time an assigner or conference commissioner is sitting in the stands watching. We have to work every single match like it’s the most important match of the night, because to those playing and coaching in that match, it is. And if our mindset doesn’t match that, problems will occur. With today’s technology, more and more matches are being streamed, recorded, replayed, etc. We never want to end up on a training tape of things not to do. We must work each match like it is our one shot to impress someone, because

CASEPLAYS

Player Misconduct

Play: After an intense first set that team A wins 29-27, the teams begin to exchange courts. During the course of the exchange, A1 makes an obscene gesture and rude comment toward B2 that is heard by the second referee. The second referee blows the whistle and issues a yellow card to A1. Ruling: Incorrect procedure in all codes. The second referee in this instance can request either a red card or a red and yellow card from the first referee for the first act of rude or offensive conduct. The second referee should ensure the penalty sanction is recorded on the scoresheet. When the teams return to the court for the next set to begin, the first referee displays the appropriate card to begin the set (NFHS 5-4-3-19, 12-2-9e Pen.1b; NCAA 6.1.2.2, 19.2.4.3; USAV 21.3.1, 23.3.2.2).

Injury Substitution

Play: With the score tied at 10 in the first set, A1 and A2 collide while going for a ball. The certified medical trainer for team A informs the head coach that both players will need to be removed for the remainder of the set. A3, who was previously substituted for A1 during the set, returns in that position and A4, who has not played in the set, is substituted for A2. The second referee authorizes both substitutions. Ruling: Correct in all codes. During an injury substitution, either a player who previously played in the set, in the position of the injured player, may return, or a player who has not played in the set, may be used as a substitution (NFHS 10-3-4; NCAA 11.3.5.1; USAV 15.7).

Antenna Fault

Play: During play, A1 attacks a ball that is driven into the net and hits the antenna, then rebounds to A2, who completes an attack. The line judge waves the flag straight above the head to get the first referee’s attention and points to the antenna with the other hand. The first referee blows the whistle and awards a loss of rally/point to team B. Ruling: Correct in all codes. A ball is out of bounds and becomes dead when it touches the net antennas within the net (NFHS 2-3c; NCAA 16.2.2.4; USAV 8.4.3).

it just might be. And the opposite is also true. If our body language is poor and our mechanics are lazy, we may just be blowing our one shot to impress. Just because someone we are hoping to impress isn’t in the stands doesn’t mean they aren’t watching us at home on their phone or computer, or they won’t come across the video of that match somewhere down the line. Every match we work builds our resume. And we only get one chance to make a good first impression.

Attitude Is a Little Thing That Makes a Big Difference

We can have all the ability in the world, and if our attitude stinks, no one will want to be around us or work with us. If we constantly have a bad attitude and take the court grumpy, it will show in our body language and our demeanor. Coaches, players, partners and assigners will all pick up on attitude. It can be difficult to be in a good mood every single time we take the court, but it is important for us to put away whatever else is going on in our day-to-day lives and focus on the task at hand. Instead of saying, “I have to work this match today,” simply change one word and say, “I get to work this match today.” Being positive heading out onto the court will make a world of difference instead of instilling dread in the crew. We have to be someone people want

to be around. Otherwise, word will get out and we will never have the opportunity to advance and get those coveted assignments.

Small Things Add Up to Big Things

In order to improve our stock, we have to take care of business. And part of the business of being a volleyball official is taking care of a lot of small things. We have to make sure we register with our local and state associations; take our tests and go to rules clinics; have our uniforms clean and pressed; and make sure to accept our assignments and sign our contracts in a timely manner. All of those things eventually add up. If we don’t take care of those things, and in a timely manner, it shows we are lazy and not dependable. If we constantly wait until the last minute to do all those things, chances are we will forget to do one or more of them. We should strive to do all of those things early and get them out of the way so we can focus on doing what we are paid to do — officiate matches. If we constantly put off testing and registering and leave assigners hanging on accepting matches, it gives the impression none of that stuff is important to us. Assigners take notice of how officials handle ourselves off the court. If we can’t handle those small things, how do they expect us to handle things on the court?

Having a positive attitude will show during the prematch conference. It is one of the things officials can control that will start the match off on the right foot, as Carl Buggs, Long Beach, Calif., does here with captains.

Be Noticed for the Right Reasons

It is often said if we do the right things, people will find us. The opposite is also true. Assigners’ jobs are to find someone better than us. Our job is to make sure they can’t. That means we handle our business every time we take the court and become someone our assigners can rely on. If we show up on time, we show up dressed appropriately, we know the rules and we communicate effectively with coaches, players and our partners, we work hard night in and night out, opportunities will exist for us. If we choose to do the opposite, we will also get noticed by our assigners and soon we won’t have to worry what those assigners think, as we won’t be working for them anymore.

Act Like We’ve Been There Before

Assigners like to test us to see what we are made of. Even if it is our first time working a high-level match, working with a difficult coach, or simply being on a match we’ve never worked before, we must act like we’ve been there a thousand times. We all work better when we are calm, cool and collected. It’s natural to be nervous when working outside our comfort zones, but we don’t have to let anyone know we are nervous. Taking a few moments in the locker room before the match and calming our nerves can go a long way in preparing for the match instead. When we take the court, we need to have an air of confidence to show coaches, our partners and the athletes we have everything under control and they are in good hands. Remember, impressions are everything. If we look nervous and fazed, coaches and athletes — and even our partners — will not trust us. We must find a way to block out the noise and get ourselves into a comfort zone so we can work the match unfazed, even when faced with experiences we’ve never dealt with before.

Brad Tittrington is an associate editor for Referee. He referees college and high school volleyball, umpires D-I softball and officiates women’s college and high school basketball and high school football. 

5 MINUTES WITH JULIE VOECK

NCAA women’s volleyball secretary-rules editor and PAVO president discusses officiating the power tip/throw.

Residence: Wauwatosa, Wis.

Experience: NCAA secretary-rules editor; PAVO president; Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference coordinator of women’s volleyball officials; officiated the NCAA D-I women’s volleyball championships from 2004-23, including officiating the 2011 and 2020 finals; officiated the NCAA D-III women’s volleyball championship finals four times and the NCAA D-III men’s championship three times; international referee from 2004-18; served on the NASO board from 2015-19.

REFEREE: Do you have any guidance on what is and isn’t legal, and breaking down what is prolonged contact and what isn’t?

VOECK: If I could answer all those questions, I’d probably still be officiating women’s collegiate volleyball. The rule itself has not changed, but teams have significantly used the power tip more in recent years. At the rules committee meeting, this topic did not receive a significant amount of concern from committee members. It wasn’t something that the committee felt needed more emphasis than what is currently part of the officials’ training.

REFEREE: PAVO sent out video clips recently to officials. Can you talk about the reasoning behind that?

VOECK: It was to ask officials to review clips and provide their opinion on whether the play was legal or illegal. The results will be presented at the NCAA/PAVO clinics for next season. From a SRE-perspective, the information will give us good insight into where officials are at in training. I think more video will be helpful for officials to be more comfortable with the play as they see this play more often. Ten years ago, this play wasn’t a major part of the game. It’s evolved over the last few years. There are some aspects of this play that can help in determining legality. For example, when a player is about to make a power tip, where the ball is contacted in relation to the player provides clues on the legality of the play. If the player is reaching behind them to contact the ball instead of out in front of them, there is a greater likelihood of a catch and throw. Why is that? If the player’s hand is starting behind them in some way, either behind their head or to the side, and then the ball is released in front of the player, there’s a greater likelihood

of two actions — a catch and a throw. When I look at these plays to determine whether the ball was contacted illegally, I’m looking for two actions for a catch and throw — is there a stop and a direct. If the ball is stopped and then moved forward, it is more likely the ball was illegally caught and thrown. It continues to be a controversial play because it involves judgment. Whenever there’s judgment, there’s a possibility for different perspectives regarding legality. The grayer it is, the greater the potential for controversy. It’s also a newer skill that officials are now seeing and need to make a decision on. Players are also using different types of techniques for the power tip, so there is an education process from the officiating side as this skill has become a larger part of the game.

REFEREE: Does that make it difficult to get a consistent message?

VOECK: I think officials are continuing to become more consistent on these decisions. Continued training of this skill at annual NCAA/PAVO clinics, through NCAA Volleycasts and at the annual PAVO Convention have provided continual education for officials. We tell officials that coaches push the limit on what they can do to be as competitive as possible. Until officials intervene by whistling that a play has become illegal, coaches will continue to train their players in the same way. As officials continue whistling this fault more frequently, I think teams will back off and make changes to avoid a skill being whistled as illegal. Officials will also be less concerned they are going to be the “only one” whistling a fault as the officiating cadre is also whistling faults for illegal power tips — they won’t be an outlier out there.

REFEREE

EDITOR: JEFFREY STERN jstern@referee.com

QB OR NOT QB?

The Passer Involved in Fouls Is Not Always the Quarterback

By Judson Howard

Most plays start when the quarterback receives the ball from a snap. He will then run, hand off or pass the ball. During any of those actions, the quarterback can do something illegal. And while most

passes are thrown by the quarterback, it is possible for other team A players to pass the ball. As a result, fouls by and against the passer are not limited to the quarterback.

Roughing the passer. The defense must make a valid attempt to avoid contacting the passer after he throws a

forward pass. In NFHS, the pass must be legal (NFHS 2-32-11, 9-4-4; NCAA 9-1-9a).

There are multiple penalty options. It depends if the pass is incomplete, intercepted, or completed behind or beyond the line of scrimmage. An automatic first down

This collegiate scrambling quarterback is outside the tackle box, so if he’s still behind the neutral zone, he has the opportunity to take advantage of the intentional grounding exception. And while the defender at his feet isn’t likely to rough him, another presently outside the frame could very well be bearing down on the quarterback.

applies to most situations.

Because the passer is defenseless while in a passing posture, he is also subject to team B fouls like targeting and other personal fouls.

Play 1: Quarterback A1 hands off to back A2, who throws a forward pass. After the pass is in flight, B3 knocks A2 to the ground. The pass is (a) incomplete, or (b) complete. Ruling 1: That is a foul for roughing the passer. Even though A2 is not the quarterback, he receives protection for roughing the passer. In (a), the penalty is 15 yards from the previous spot and an automatic first down. In (b), in NFHS, the penalty is enforced from the dead-ball spot. In NCAA, the penalty is added to the end of the last run. In both cases, the 15-yard penalty includes an automatic first down.

NCAA rules note no defensive player rushing unabated shall hit a player in a passing posture forcibly at the knee area or below. The defensive player also may not initiate a roll or lunge and forcibly hit that opponent in the knee area or below (9-1-9b).

Play 2: A1 legally blocks B2 and the force causes B2 to contact quarterback A3 after A3 throws the ball. Ruling 2: In NFHS, B2 is not exempt from roughing the passer. There is no foul in NCAA. The block excuses B2 from a roughing the passer foul (9-1-9a-3 Exc.). However, B2 could be flagged for a personal foul.

A running quarterback has the same protection as a runner regarding horse-collar tackle, facemask, targeting and late hit fouls. In NCAA, horsecollar tackle fouls do not apply to a runner, including a potential passer, who is inside the tackle box. The tackle box disintegrates when the ball leaves it.

When a running quarterback slides feet first to avoid being tackled, he becomes a defenseless player after the slide begins.

The rules also spell out what a quarterback or passer cannot do.

Intentional grounding. It is a foul to throw an incomplete forward pass to an area where there are no eligible receivers to save loss of yardage or to conserve time. In NFHS, the five-yard penalty is enforced from the spot of the pass. In NCAA, the ball is placed at the spot of the foul. It is a loss of down in

both codes (NFHS 7-5-2d; NCAA 7-32f, g and h).

There is an exception for intentional grounding. After first controlling the snap, the passer can immediately throw the ball forward directly to the ground. That is known as “spiking” the ball (NFHS 7-5-2d Exc. 1; NCAA 7-3-2 Exc.). This is usually done to stop the clock near the end of a half.

Another exception occurs when the passer is outside the free-blocking zone (NFHS) or the tackle box (NCAA). It is not a foul if the pass lands at or beyond the neutral zone. That applies only to the player who first controls the snap and is the only player to possess the ball after the snap.

Illegal forward pass. Other illegal passes are those thrown after a change of possession, thrown from beyond the neutral zone and a second or subsequent forward pass. NCAA rules additionally have a foul for a pass thrown from in or behind the neutral zone after the passer’s entire body and the ball have been past the neutral zone. The penalty is five yards from the spot of the illegal pass and loss of down (NFHS 7-5-2a, b and c; NCAA 7-3-2a through e).

NFHS allows a pass thrown backward and out of bounds at any time (7-4-1). In NCAA, team A cannot pass the ball backward and out of bounds to conserve time. The result is a five-yard penalty from the foul spot and loss of down (7-2-1).

Illegal forward handing. A quarterback beyond the line cannot hand the ball forward to a teammate. The result is a five-yard penalty from the spot of the handing and loss of down (NFHS 7-3-2; NCAA 7-1-6a).

Be aware when the quarterback is trying to cause the defense to encroach (NFHS) or be offside (NCAA) by using unfair practices. Examples are excessive head bobbing, chucking his hands rapidly under the snapper, quick shoulder movements that simulate the beginning of a play or “walking into the snap.” Those acts result in a false start, a five-yard dead-ball foul (NFHS 7-1-7b; NCAA 7-1-2b-4c).

Judson Howard, Los Angeles, is a replay official in the Pac-12 Conference. He officiated more than 20 years, many at the NCAA Division I level. 

QUICKTIP

Hustle is an important aspect of officiating. But when you run, your eyes bounce. That could cause you to miss an important facet of the play. When the play allows, come to a complete stop before making your call. If you have to make a call on the run, be sure you’re not running on your toes, which can lead to a lot of bouncing. Try to land on the middle (ball) of your foot and then roll through to the front of your toes.

“It’s OK for announcers to give an opinion on officials’ calls, but they should (a) know the rules, and (b) not be so adamant that they’re right (and the officials are wrong) if the call isn’t obvious.”

— Excerpt from an editorial in the Miami Herald

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FOOTBALL

In each of the following you are given a situation and at least two possible answers. You are to decide which answer or answers are correct for NFHS and NCAA rules, which might vary. Note: In kicking situations, K is the kicking team, R the receiving team. Solutions: p. 85

1. On the kickoff, the ball bounces high near the sideline. R1 leaps from inbounds and grabs the ball while he is airborne over the field of play. R1 alights so that he lands on the sideline at team R’s 15 yardline.

a. Team K foul for a free kick out of bounds.

b. Team R will put the ball in play at its own 15 yardline.

2. Third and 10 at team A’s 35 yardline. Receiver A1 is running near the sideline as the forward pass reaches him. He tips the ball, steps out of bounds at team A’s 48 yardline, returns to the ground inbounds, catches the ball and carries it across team B’s goalline.

a. No problem; the touchdown stands.

b. Foul for illegal touching. The penalty is five yards but no loss of down.

c. Foul for illegal touching. The penalty is five yards and loss of down.

d. Foul for illegal touching. The penalty is loss of down but no yardage.

e. Foul for illegal participation. The penalty is 15 yards.

3. First and 10 at team A’s 30 yardline. B1 is flagged for roughing the passer. B2 intercepts the pass, and on the return he fumbles. A3 recovers and is tackled at team A’s 35 yardline.

a. First and 10 for team A at team A’s 45 yardline. Clock starts on the ready.

b. First and 10 for team A at team A’s 45 yardline. Clock starts on the snap.

c. First and 10 for team A at the 50 yardline. Clock starts on the ready.

d. First and 10 for team A at the 50 yardline. Clock starts on the snap.

4. R1 muffs a free kick. As the ball is rolling at team R’s 20 yardline, K2 pushes R1 in the back above the waist. K2 then recovers the ball while grounded at team R’s 15 yardline.

a. Foul for illegal block in the back.

b. Legal play. First and 10 for team K at team R’s 15 yardline.

What Is the Impetus Behind Force?

By Ron Roizen

Aristotle believed an object’s motion was caused by a continuous exertion of force. Stop the force and an object’s motion stopped, too. His theory had problems from the get-go. What, for instance, kept an arrow’s flight moving forward after it left the bowstring?

Isaac Newton held an object continued in motion until a new force was applied. Newton also linked force to mass and acceleration in a famous formula. But force is a horse of a different color according to NFHS rules. (Note: The same concept in NCAA is called impetus. From this point in the column, force will be used.)

Force comes into play only near the goalline and applies only to balls moving in one direction — toward and across the goalline. The goalline’s great relevance derives from the fact the force concept’s sole function is to answer the question, which team bears responsibility for sending a loose ball across a goalline? A loose ball may be either a ball in flight or one that has been grounded. A loose ball that crosses the goalline and either stays there and becomes dead there or rolls out of bounds will result in one of three outcomes: a safety, a touchback or a touchdown. Force is the deciding factor in determining safety or touchback.

NFHS distinguishes two kinds of force — an initial force and a new force. Initial force is the result of energy exerted by a player which provides movement of the ball. A new force is different in that it applies only after a fumble, kick or backward pass has been grounded. A new force may not result from a bat, illegal kick or a muff. So a ball in flight can never gain a new force (2-13-1 and 2, 8-5-1a, 8-5-1b, 8.3.3A, 8.5.1B, 8.5.2C, 8.5.3A and C).

In NCAA, a new impetus cannot be attributed to a muff unless the ball is at rest. If the ball is not at rest, the original impetus is not considered

expended if the ball is muffed and is deflected, or its course is reversed after striking the ground or after touching any player. A new impetus is always attributed to a grounded ball that is batted or intentionally kicked regardless of whether the ball is at rest. Forced touching that includes when a player’s contact with the ball is due to an opponent blocking him into it, or the ball being batted or illegally kicked into him by an opponent, is ignored and the player in question is deemed not to have touched the ball (6-3-4a, 8-7, AR 6-3-4 I, II and IV, AR 8-5-1 VIII).

Play 1: A1 completes a long pass to A2, who dashes unimpeded toward team B’s end zone. At team B’s five yardline A2 tries to switch hands and move the ball forward with one hand. Unfortunately for A1, the ball drops out of his hand, floats over the goalline into the end zone and bounces out of bounds. Ruling 1: A2 was clearly responsible for the force that propelled the loose ball over the goalline and out of bounds. Therefore, by rule, the play results in a touchback. Team B will next put the ball in play on its 20 yardline, first and 10.

Play 2: Fourth and 10 for team K from its own 18 yardline. R1 bursts through team K’s line and blocks the kick just as it leaves K2’s foot. The kick bounces back across team K’s goalline and goes out of bounds. Ruling 2: Remember, a ball in flight cannot receive a new force. Hence, the kick is the force and results in a safety and two points for team R. If the rule were written so that team R was responsible for the ball going into team K’s end zone, resulting in a touchback and a new set of downs for team K, team R would have reduced incentive to attempt to block a punt near team K’s goalline.

Play 3: R1 blocks K2’s punt. The ball bounces backward. R3 attempts to secure the ball, but instead deflects the ball out of bounds behind team K’s goalline. Ruling 3: In NFHS, the covering official would have to

decide whether the ball would have crossed the goalline even without the deflection. If so, team K would be responsible for the force and team R would score a safety. If not, team R is considered responsible for the force and team K would be awarded a touchback. If the officials cannot determine whether or not the untouched ball would have crossed the goalline, team K is responsible. In NCAA, a muff cannot be a new impetus unless the ball is at rest, thus team K is responsible for the ball entering the end zone force and team R scores a safety.

Even Aristotle and Newton might have been a little confused at first by the concept of force, especially in difficult cases. By the way, Aristotle’s problematic arrow could not receive a new force in football’s rules because it was in flight. And without a new force, the arrow would continue flying forever.

Ron Roizen is a retired high school football official from Wallace, Idaho. 

We are excited to announce that the Tom Beard Football Officials Clinic West – El Paso, in El Paso, Texas, is entering its 3rd year. We have extended the days, the amount of classroom time and on-field snaps. You will not want to miss this opportunity!

In the Kansas City-Buffalo NFL Divisional game, Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman was initially ruled to have been downed by contact at about the Buffalo one yardline. The ball came loose but it was ruled the fumble into and out of the end zone came after Hardman was downed. Instant replay reversed the call, deciding the ball was moving in Hardman’s hands before his hip or leg touched the ground. The Bills were awarded the ball on a touchback.

FOOTBALL

Illegal Substitution

Play: Second and three at team A’s 20 yardline. As the ball is being snapped, B12 realizes his team has too many players on the field. The situation has not been recognized by the officials. B12 attempts to run off the field to his own sideline, is on the field while the ball is live but does not participate in or influence the play. A1 carries the ball and is downed at team A’s 27 yardline. An official recognizes the situation and properly throws his flag. Ruling: Team B is guilty of a live-ball illegal substitution foul. Since the five-yard penalty is enforced from the previous spot, team A will likely decline the penalty. It will be first and 10 for team A from its own 27 yardline (NFHS 3-7-4 Pen.; NCAA 3-5-2b Pen., AR 3-5-2 I).

Blocking on a Free Kick

Play: After a try, K1 attempts an onside kick and kicks the ball on the ground toward the sideline. As R2 goes to recover the ball two yards in advance of his free-kick line, he is blocked by K3. K4 recovers the ball.

Ruling: K3 is guilty of an illegal block. Team K players may not block an opponent until team K is eligible to touch the kick. K3’s block is illegal and negates K4’s recovery (NFHS 6-1-6, 9-3-7; NCAA 6-1-12 Pen., AR 6-1-3 II). In NFHS, the 10-yard penalty is enforced from the previous spot. The penalty in NCAA is five yards from the previous spot or from the spot where the subsequent dead ball belongs to team R.

Numbering Exception

Play: Team K lines up in scrimmage kick formation. The line includes players numbered (from left) 80, 70, 20, 31, 71, 77 and 88. In the backfield, number 11 is in the deep position as the apparent punter, 33 is to the punter’s left and numbers 41 and 44 to the punter’s right. Which players are eligible receivers?

Ruling: Numbers 20 and 31 have eligible numbers but are being used as interior linemen under the numbering exception and are ineligible by position. The eligibles are numbers 80, 88, 41, 44, 33 and 11 (NFHS 7-2-5a Exc. 1, 7-5-6a; NCAA 7-1-4a-5, AR 1-4-2 I).

Solving PSK Puzzles

By Scott Hamby

Kicks are part of any football game and special rules govern kick plays. One situation that can easily be misunderstood involves post-scrimmage kick enforcement (PSK). Applying a checklist-based approach can help you work through it.

In order to have PSK, a team R foul must occur after the ball has been kicked and before the kick ends. With that as a starting point, here are questions you must answer.

Did the foul occur before the end of the kick? Was the kick an unsuccessful field goal or punt in regulation time? Did the ball cross the neutral zone (expanded in NFHS)? Will team R next put the ball in play? For NFHS, did the foul occur beyond the expanded neutral zone?

If you answer yes to all of those questions, PSK applies. The basic spot is the spot where the kick ends if the kick ends in the field of play, or team R’s 20 yardline if the kick ends in team R’s end zone.

Play 1: While K1’s punt is in flight, R2 holds K3 at team K’s 30 yardline. R4 makes a fair catch at team K’s 45 yardline. Ruling 1: PSK applies. The penalty is enforced 10 yards from the end of the kick (the spot of R4’s fair catch). It will be team R’s ball, first and 10 from its own 45 yardline.

Play 2: K1’s punt is caught by R2 at team K’s 45 yardline and he advances to team K’s 30 yardline before he is downed. During R2’s run, R3 blocks K4 below the waist at team K’s 40 yardline. Ruling 2: PSK does not apply since the kick had ended. The penalty is enforced from the spot of the foul, yielding first and 10 for team R from its own 45 yardline.

Even though PSK enforcement has specific layers and facets, it can be easy to apply. Good communication among the crew and knowing when and where the foul occurred are paramount. Scott Hamby officiates high school and college football and high school basketball. He lives in Waco, Texas. 

Not All Is Fair in Catches

By George Demetriou

Whena receiver gives a fair catch signal, both the rights and the prerogatives of the receiving team change. Any receiver may signal for a fair catch while any kick is in flight; it does not matter where the ball is with respect to the neutral zone. That applies to both free and scrimmage kicks. When a receiver gives a fair catch signal, he is requesting protection in exchange for forfeiting the right of his team to advance. It’s possible for a team to give a valid catch signal and subsequently catch the ball, but not get credit for a fair catch.

The signal. The validity of a signal is determined by how it is given and to a lesser extent, when it is made. A

valid fair catch signal is the extending and lateral waving of one arm, clearly above the head, by any member of the receiving team. NFHS specifies at full arm’s length and NCAA stipulates more than one wave. An invalid signal is any signal by team R that does not meet the physical characteristics of a valid signal. That is not a rule to nitpick as “full arm’s length” in NFHS is extremely rare.

Other examples of invalid signals include: a chest-high flick of the hand, a quick wave-off motion like that of an outfielder calling for a fly ball, a limp wave, partially extending and waving one hand in front of the face or chest and fully extending and laterally waving both hands above the head. When a receiver shades his eyes during a kick, he must do so with

a bent arm and without waving so it cannot be interpreted as an invalid signal.

The receiver is allowed to extend his arms in the so-called “t-signal” as long as his hands remain below the shoulder and there is no waving motion. Any waving of the arm below the shoulder, including the “get away” signal, should be construed as an invalid signal. But merely pointing at the ball without waving is not a signal (2023 CFO/NCAA Training Video 13).

When the signal is made. An invalid fair catch signal is not only a signal that does not meet the physical requirements of a valid signal, but can also be one which is given too late in the play. In NFHS, that is one that is made after the kick has touched a receiver or the ground (2-9-4). In NCAA, a signal is invalid if the ball strikes the ground, or a scrimmage kick is touched by another player, is caught beyond the neutral zone or on a free kick is touched by another player or is caught (2-8-3).

The validity of the signal does not affect the status of the ball. The ball remains live when the signal is given, but always is dead when caught or recovered anywhere by either team. When in doubt, the fair catch signal is valid.

In NFHS, a signal given by a runner — a player in possession of the ball — is an illegal signal (2-9-5). The penalty is also five yards (6-5-8 Pen.). The ball remains live as no foul causes a live ball to become dead (2-16-4).

In either code, if any other player gives a fair catch signal after the ball is in possession of a receiver, the signal is ignored (6.5.8B).

Who signals? As noted, any member of the receiving team can signal for a fair catch while any kick is in flight. It does not matter where the player is standing when he signals. Any signal given by a team K player should be ignored. It is legal for multiple players of the receiving team to signal, but only those who have a reasonable opportunity to catch the ball are afforded the protection that comes with a valid fair catch signal.

A receiver who signals is protected from contact by the kicking team in return for a commitment on behalf

of his team to not advance the ball (NFHS 6-5-5; NCAA 6-5-2). This protection applies to a player after he touches the ball and is not related to the opportunity to catch the ball. Contacting a player who has given a valid signal is a foul that carries a 15-yard penalty.

The catch. As the name implies, in order to make a fair catch the ball must be caught, not recovered, and it must be caught by a player who gave a valid signal. If, after a receiver signals, a catch is made by a teammate who did not also signal, it is not a fair catch, but the ball still becomes dead.

Only the receiver who gives a valid signal is afforded protection. In NFHS, he loses his protection if he muffs the ball. It does not matter if he still has a chance to complete the catch after the muff; he may be immediately contacted legally. In NCAA, he continues to have protection if he muffs the ball and still has a chance to complete the catch. The kicking team must allow the player who muffs the ball an unimpeded opportunity to complete the catch. If two players signal, only the player who muffed the ball is protected.

Location. Where the ball is caught plays a role in determining if a fair catch was made. Despite a valid signal, it is not a fair catch when a scrimmage kick is caught behind the line or, in

NFHS only, if a free kick is caught behind the neutral zone, or if any kick is caught in team R’s end zone. Next snap. When a fair catch is made, the ball may be next put in play in NFHS with a snap by the receiving team or with a free kick (4-3-5d, 6-5-4a). In NCAA, the ball must be put in play by snap (6-5-1e). There is no option for a free kick.

In NFHS, the spot of the snap can be anywhere between the hashmarks on the yardline through the spot of the catch. In NCAA, the ball is put in play by the receiving team at the spot of the catch with three exceptions. The first one is obvious — if the catch is made in a side zone, the ball is moved to the nearest hashmark. Next, if a player who signals muffs the ball and he or a teammate catches the ball, it is spotted where it was first touched (6-5-1b, AR 6-5-1 I). The last exception only applies to free kicks and was designed to reduce the number of run backs. If a fair catch is made inside team R’s 25 yardline (6-5-1a Exc.), or the ball is caught by a team R player who gave any waving signal (i.e. an invalid fair catch signal as in 6-5-3a Exc.), the ball will be snapped from the 25 yardline. George Demetriou has been a football official since 1968. He lives in Colorado Springs, Colo. 

Indy Official Works Every Gym in the Hoosier State

By Brad Star

High school basketball has long been a passion of the Indiana sports community. Basketball official Casey Gaynor bought into that “Hoosier hysteria” early on, and after 26 years, Gaynor this past January completed his goal of officiating at every high school gym in Indiana.

A native of Indianapolis, Gaynor earned his Indiana referee license in 1998 and started chasing that lofty goal immediately.

“I grew up in Indianapolis, and the basketball in central Indiana is top notch,” Gaynor said. “Basketball seems to have always been the lifeblood of the community for years in the winter. I found early on that I liked going to different venues to see the gyms and experience the atmosphere.”

By 2000, Gaynor had purchased Dale Lawrence’s Hoosier Hysteria Road Book, a guide to high school basketball teams and venues throughout Indiana. This only fueled Gaynor’s desire; he’d often read parts of the book dreaming of where he’d go next.

Gaynor faced many roadblocks in his nearly three-decade tour of the 400-plus high school gyms in the state. There are many ways Indiana schools assign their officials, such as through athletic directors, coaches or some other form of assigner. Schools often change the way they assign from year to year, according to Gaynor, which would sometimes set him back when trying to get a game at a specific venue.

“Believe me, I’ve had plenty of frustrations trying to get this done,” he said. “But for all the trials and tribulations that came with this goal, I do have to mention that there were a few assigners and ADs who once they found out what I was trying to do, they got on board quickly and got me to their school or schools within two years. Some even contacted their fellow assigners and asked them to help me. That was much appreciated.”

Some of Gaynor’s favorite venues include the New Castle Fieldhouse (which was known as the Chrysler Fieldhouse when Gaynor first worked there in 2001), the largest high school gym in the world; the Spartan Bowl at Connersville High School; and Anderson High School’s Wigwam.

Gaynor, 57, also officiated college basketball for 16 years, reaching the men’s Division II level.

“I started late, so the avenue to achieve any collegiate goals I had was short,” he said. “I’m proud that I made it to the D-II level.”

For the past 15 years, Gaynor has also umpired high school baseball. He doesn’t have the same aspirations of umpiring at every high school. “At least not at the moment,” he said.

“God has shown me that my special gift is to train younger officials and referee high school basketball,” Gaynor said. “I enjoy both very much.”

Brad Star is an assistant editor for Referee. 

Sixty-Year Career

Dick Lambrecht Janesville, Wis.

After more than six decades of officiating swimming, track and field, and cross country, Dick Lambrecht is calling it a career. Lambrecht, who became a Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association official in 1963 and has been a fixture at pools and parks in Rock County ever since, officiated his final meet in January. Lambrecht’s work was not limited to the high school level — he’s officiated college meets for the University of Wisconsin system and the Big Ten Conference, national swim meets and Special Olympics events in Wisconsin and across the country.

SOURCE: MILTON SCHOOL ACTIVITIES DEPARTMENT

Official Recognition

On Jan. 23, the Georgia Senate honored two referees who call Georgia home. ACC football officials Jamal Shears and Marcus Woods were recognized on the Senate floor for their contributions to football and sports officiating, and for proudly representing the state of Georgia. Senate President Pro Tempore John F. Kennedy sponsored the resolution.

“I just want to express my appreciation, and what a treat it is to have these two Georgians in our Capitol today,” Kennedy said. Woods served as the referee for this year’s College Football Playoff National Championship game between Michigan and Washington. Shears worked the 2023 ACC Championship game between Louisville and Florida State.

SOURCE: GEORGIA STATE SENATE

Do you know a person or group who should be profiled?

Send info to us at profiles@referee.com

Marcus Woods Jamal Shears Marietta, Ga. Mableton, Ga.

Casey Gaynor has officiated basketball games at all 404 high school gyms in Indiana.

As an official, only NASO membership gets you into Marriott’s exclusive athletic discount program, which provides a discounted rate at Marriott and Starwood branded properties in the US and Canada. With the VIP card, NASO members are able to stay at those participating hotels for a room rate up to 25 percent lower than the regular price, based on availability.

YOU ARE THERE

Can We Borrow Your Zamboni?

A nearby hockey rink saved Toronto’s first Opening Day.

AL umpire Joe Brinkman suspected something was wrong when the cab driver picked him up at his hotel in Toronto the morning of April 7, 1977. It was the city’s first Opening Day, but the temperature was barely above freezing. When the cab pulled up to the umpires entrance at Exhibition Stadium, Brinkman could barely believe what he saw.

By Dan Ronan

purpose Exhibition Stadium was the oddly shaped home of the Canadian Football League’s Toronto Argonauts and, for 12 years, the home of the Blue Jays. MLB executive Paul Beeston once said it “wasn’t just the worst stadium in baseball. It was the worst stadium in

“I remember actually seeing snow for the first time in my life,” he said. “I actually went outside with Stevie, and we were making snowballs, and we fooled around a little bit, throwing snowballs at each other while they were clearing the field.”

“I told the driver to take me to the ballpark where the Blue Jays were playing,” he said. “We pulled up to a football stadium. I thought, ‘Well, this is going to be interesting.’ You think you’re going to a nice new ballpark to open the (baseball) season and end up at a football stadium.”

By the time Brinkman and fellow umpires Rich Garcia, Steve Palermo and crew chief Nestor Chylak got back to their hotel later that day, the crew battled wet snow, high winds and bone-numbing temperatures.

Just a few hundred yards from Lake Ontario, the multi-

sports.”

“We used to get a lot of wind in there because it was just like the stadium in Cleveland,” Garcia said. “Both were right on the water.”

“We on water.”

And clear the field they did, in the most unconventional way that’s ever been seen at an MLB game.

Chicago what to be of game, hard-as-a-rock artificial covered he

The Blue Jays hosted the Chicago White Sox in what was supposed to be a spectacular culmination of years of hard work to bring the second MLB expansion team to Canada (the Expos took up residence in Montreal in 1969). Still, the weather was determined not to cooperate. When the umpires arrived at the park two hours before the game, the tarped, hard-as-a-rock artificial turf infield was covered with several inches of snow.

For Garcia, a native of Key West, Fla., the journey to Canada was an experience unlike anything he had ever come across before.

Toronto is, at its heart, a hockey town. So, Blue Jays officials thought, what better way to get rid of the snow than to use an ice-surfacing Zamboni machine? The Toronto Coliseum was just a few hundred yards from the stadium. In the team’s desperation to remove the snow and save the game, someone came up with the idea of running the Zamboni over the turf. The scalding hot water the Zamboni usually uses to resurface the ice on the hockey rink would melt the snow on the diamond.

A half hour before the game, it was still anyone’s guess as to whether or not the field could be salvaged.

On CBC radio, Blue Jays announcer Rick Cluff said, “Groundskeepers worked feverishly, vacuuming up fallen snow from the artificial

turf while players and fans alike speculated about a snowout.”

“Nestor wanted to get the game in,” Brinkman said. “The cold weather didn’t bother him. When he was in World War II, he dealt with the awful weather. Plus, he was working the plate, wearing equipment and moving around a lot. I was from Minnesota. But Steve, Richie and me, we wore every piece of clothing we could.”

“Nestor loved all the hoopla. He enjoyed every minute of it,” Garcia said. “It was Toronto’s first home game. He was honored to work that game. Nestor didn’t care about the cold. His body was full of frostbite from the war.”

But Garcia said the game was an endurance test for the other umpires.

“The field was awful. The turf was like asphalt. It was wet,

slick and the balls were wet. Infielders had balls hit to them and they would take a weird bounce,” Garcia said.

The box score said 44,649 fans packed into the wet and cold open-air stadium on that historic day, and the hometown Blue Jays won the game, 9-5.

But two future crew chiefs, Garcia and Brinkman, say the thing they remember the most from that day is the professionalism Chylak displayed.

“Nestor Chylak is the best umpire I ever walked on the field with, hands down, no doubt,” Garcia said. “And I worked with a lot of very good umpires in my career. But he was the boss.”

“He was the greatest. I worked with him for five years,” Brinkman said. “He was fantastic and a truly great guy to work with.”

On a day more suitable for football — or hockey — a Zamboni is used to clear the infield for the first home game in Toronto Blue Jays history.

Chylak and Palermo are deceased. Chylak is generally regarded as one of the game’s greatest umpires. He umpired from 1954-78. He died in 1982 at age 59 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1999.

Palermo’s career was cut short in 1991 when he was seriously injured by a gunshot outside a Dallas restaurant as he tried to prevent a woman from being attacked. He returned to baseball as an MLB umpiring supervisor before dying of cancer in 2017 at age 67.

Dan Ronan is a veteran Washington, D.C.-based journalist. He is the managing producer/senior reporter at Transport Topics, ttnews.com. In addition, he is a news anchor/ program host on SiriusXM Channel 146 and an anchor at all-news radio, WTOP-103.5 FM, in the nation’s capital. He is a retired NCAA baseball umpire and small-college and high school basketball referee. 

DICK LOEK/TORONTO STAR VIA GETTY IMAGES

OUT OF THE TUNNEL

Tunnel Vision Tribulations, Troubles and Turmoil

By Richard Kennington

In my profession — air traffic control — it’s called “tunnel vision” and it can ruin our day … not to mention that of the passengers.

Even though a controller’s radar screen is only about 18 inches across, a lot happens on it, and an awful lot is riding (literally) on those little green lights. When a problem pops up on the screen, a controller can get sucked into resolving that one issue and go into a sort of trance, losing track of a dozen other aircraft approaching at speeds in excess of the world’s fastest roller coaster.

I will never forget a bad weather day early in my career, when a pilot in my airspace suddenly lost all of his electrical power. As he worked frantically to keep the aircraft rightside-up and out of the rising terrain, I was on the ground working just as frantically to bring the plane down safely.

Under the stress of the situation, I tried to remember everything my instructors had taught me. I pulled up a list of weather reports and found an area of better visibility, and then — careful to speak clearly and use proper phraseology — I began issuing vectors in that direction.

At that moment, a more experienced controller next to me pointed to the bottom of my scope. Two green blips were headed straight for each other just inches from where I was staring. “Are you OK,” he asked in earnest, “with those two aircraft?”

Thank goodness for the experience of veterans.

Of course, controllers aren’t the only folks who have to worry about tunnel vision. Officials can also fall victim to the same phenomena. Have you ever found yourself staring at the ball or being overly focused on one or two players?

When I started officiating, I found

By establishing distance and angle, Laurence Martinez, Buena Park, Calif., avoids having too narrow a focus of the action.

officiating was startlingly similar to air traffic control. Like controllers, referees and umpires work under sometimes intense pressure. It’s different pressure, of course, but pressure nonetheless. Officials and air traffic controllers are called on to make quick, high-stakes decisions, and are always expected to be right. Calling most of the game correctly is like getting most of the airplanes down safely — no one is going to be happy.

With similar pressures and working conditions, it’s no surprise officials and controllers are susceptible to making the same kinds of mistakes — like developing tunnel vision.

As a new referee I was determined to do the job well. No, scratch that. I wanted to do it perfectly. I wanted to prove I could be trusted with a whistle and stripes, and I was determined to focus so hard on my job I wouldn’t make a single mistake.

The first time I was assigned to a freshman boys’ basketball game, I was careful to pregame with my partner (also a newbie) to make sure we were ready for anything that came at us. We covered every scenario we remembered hearing the veterans talk about and more. We wanted to be sure we communicated on any double whistles, got our positioning right and called it the same at both ends of the court. Above all, we decided we were

going to referee our primary areas.

And that’s just what we did.

We did it so well, in fact, neither of us noticed, until the entire gym was yelling at us to get our attention, that someone had tripped over the power cord and the scoreboard had gone blank. I can’t tell you how long it had been that way. I’d been busy focusing on “my job.”

Apparently clock awareness is also an important part of officiating. Who knew?

Since that game early in my career, I take the techniques I’ve learned in my career to avoid tunnel vision and apply them to the game, including the big one: scanning with a purpose.

In the tower, I constantly move my eyes from one aircraft to another, covering all my airspace, and I start to feel nervous whenever one situation consumes more than a few moments of my attention. My wife will claim that is just attention deficit disorder, but scanning keeps me from overfocusing on one thing and assures I see the big picture.

I’m happy to report my officiating has really benefited from seeing the big picture. Including the scoreboard. Richard Kennington has been an air traffic controller for 25 years. He lives in Vancouver, Wash. He officiates high school basketball and formerly officiated high school volleyball. 

Tips for Camp Instructors

By the Referee editors

If you’ve been officiating for some time, you are likely in a position to teach, mentor and make other officials better. Along with instructing at the local level, an officiating camp is a great place to share your knowledge.

Ever been to an officiating camp? Watch the campers. They will spend hours in the corner instructing other campers. Everyone fancies himself or herself an able teacher, and you’d be amazed at the sheer amount of misinformation doled out in those conversations.

That’s why it’s important for the instructors to do the job properly and head off those improper confabs.

Start by asking, “So? What level do you want to end up as an official?” If they wish to move up, you will next say, “I can help you get there. Here are some tips that helped me.”

Represent the information or yourself as having some force from beyond that makes the information you have important to the person with whom you’re sharing it.

Even if you are the evaluator or assigner, remember the ego factor. All officials have one, and the higher their level, the larger their

SURVEY SAYS …

In what area of officiating do you feel you are strongest: rules, mechanics or philosophy?

Rules: 26.8% Mechanics: 42.9% Philosophy: 30.4% SOURCE:

QUICKTIP

Avoid threatening coaches and players. Giving ultimatums in words or in actions will place officials in corners. Whenever you use, “One more word …” the coach or player has two choices: say something and show the team there is no fear, or say nothing and continue to fume until the next situation reignites the flame. Neither is desirable. Even worse, an official who gives ultimatums without following up undermines his or her credibility.

THEY SAID IT

“Ever tried refereeing a youth flag football, tackle football or even basketball game? Trust me, it’s hard, regardless of how we may feel like we’re able to see what happens from our seats in the stands. And that’s just rec sports. Try the faster high school game. Or even faster college level. Making decisions in the pro game — played by world-class athletes and where the action takes place at break-neck speed — is 10 times harder.”

— Mike Jones writer for The Athletic

DID YOU KNOW?

A Ph.D. candidate at the University of Amsterdam has determined a coin will land on the side that started “up” 50.8% of the time. That debunks the theory that a coin toss is a 50/50 proposition. It also suggests that officials who toss coins as a part of pregame duties might want to cover the coin with their hand before flipping, lest they give the captain that .8% advantage.

SOURCE: SCIENTIFIC AMERICAN

ego. Sugarcoat the information, remembering you are there to help them improve.

Meld every comment with a stirfry of boost. “I wish every official in my association had your mechanics. Then if you could mix those mechanics with the ability to hold your whistle another second to see the play, you’d be unstoppable.”

There’s just so much any one brain can handle. You have to identify the issue at hand and break down the lesson to help them improve.

“Hey, remember, it takes about five years to be a really great official, and you’re on your way for sure. But first you’ve gotta have that loud whistle and loud voice. Add that to a sharp signal and you’re set for the first year.”

It works for high-level officials as well, and you have the luxury of being even more technical based on their experience.

Unless you’re the camp counselor or evaluator, show you’re working with your fellow officials to get them to improve. Ask follow-up questions and meet at the plane of discovery together. “Doesn’t that feel much better?”

“See how holding the whistle allowed you to pass on that play?”

“Man, you’re getting better at seeing the whole play when you referee the defender.”

Know your audience. Teachers in a classroom have to work generically in large groups, but can really shape their message when they get the

individual student alone. That’s when instructors can use all their knowledge about students to dig into their bag of teaching tricks.

Let’s face it, some people aren’t the keenest of learners. Some are visual learners, some have to actually perform the task to get it and some … well, some folks just have passed the point of learning altogether. That doesn’t mean you can’t offer them some hope.

There’s a special time, an eerie quiet that happens when you are speaking and everyone in the place is hanging on every word. It tells you your tone has been perfect, your message taken, your advice crucial. Your goal is to get to that point in

the locker room or in the corner of the court every time. It tells you perfectly how well you’re doing as an evaluator, you have measured your advice and your students well, their eyes are clear and are watching yours. It lets you know you are right where you belong, and so are they. Most importantly, it tells you they will enact what you’re saying as soon as possible, and truly will take the next great step forward as an official.

That’s the ultimate praise for you as a mentor: to see the seeds you’ve planted grow and carry the stripes to the sky. Your role in their growth might be forgotten, but you’ll know what you did and why — enough to feed your ego for years to come. 

No Way? How to Defeat Negativity

By Jeffrey Stern

Suppose you arrive at your game site and you’re primed for the contest. You’ve got the big game between teams vying for first place. When you arrive, your partner is already there and is complaining about the size of the locker room, the lack of a good parking space and assorted other inadequacies.

It doesn’t take long before you feel your excitement wane and even turn

to apprehension. Eventually, unless you’re able to snap out of it, you stop caring, you become burned out and officiating becomes a chore.

That is the power of negativity.

Officials come face-to-face with a great deal of negativity — their own, that of other officials or that of coaches and players. There are a number of ways to “catch” a negative attitude.

Imagine a football crew in the locker room at halftime. The line judge turns to the referee and says, “That

intentional grounding call you made was terrible! There was an eligible receiver in my area.”

If the referee responds, “You’re right. The play could have been handled better.” That’s a win-win situation. The line judge understands the crew chief will listen to concerns and the referee has been given a tip for self-improvement.

A partner can help by relating a tip that has proved successful. An example involves an umpire who

DALE GARVEY

Ryan Wilson, Auburn, Wash., speaks at a baseball camp. In addition to teaching to groups, one-on-one instruction provides valuable information to attendees.

moans, “I hate working a game at Central High because the coach constantly gets on me about my strike zone.”

A helpful cohort might point out a mechanic the unhappy associate could try. “I used to have the same trouble until I realized Central’s pitchers throw a lot of breaking balls. Slow down your timing and be sure to watch the ball all the way into the catcher’s mitt. Just an extra second can ensure you’re seeing all of the movement on the pitch.”

Sometimes it takes more of a kick in the butt than a pat on the back to shake a fellow official’s attitude. Being firm without being cruel and staying on point are the keys. Saying “You did” instead of “You are” takes personalities out of the equation and addresses the issue, not the person.

Criticism from coordinators and assigners must be acknowledged differently than that from other officials. Supervisors who hear, “What can I do to get better?” are going to feel

they have officials worth hiring.

Enjoy any success in officiating, and you’ll soon be faced with jealousy. Because officials in effect compete for plum assignments, it is easy for less-successful officials to resent those whose résumés are more impressive.

Many officials have been accosted by a counterpart who sneers, “I’ve officiated twice as long as you have, but you get playoff games and I don’t. I guess it’s not what you know but who you know.” It is sometimes satisfying to answer such a complaint with a comment such as, “I get playoff games because I’m a better official than you.” In some cases, it would also be true. But such a retort will only further infuriate the jealous official.

That sort of negativity is better addressed by enlightenment. “You’re right. I know some influential people. I met them at the annual camp at Hometown College. Not only did I make some valuable connections, I picked up a lot of tips. I highly

recommend the camp. Want to go with me next year?”

There are no magic words or proven formulas to convince a furious coach a judgment call was correct. But there are ways an official can make the best of a bad situation.

Correct body language is perhaps the easiest technique an official can employ. That means facing an angry coach with a relaxed stance and making eye contact. Acting calm projects an air of confidence and decisiveness. Once the coach stops talking or begins repeating him or herself, explain the decision or the rule calmly and briefly.

The next time you feel the creeping effects of negativity, whether they come from your own doubts or from an infected partner or crewmate, step back and examine the roots of the problem; do you care, or do you “no”? Jeffrey Stern is Referee’s senior editor. He formerly officiated high school and college football and high school baseball. 

FOR THE RECORD

AWARDS, ROSTERS, NOTABLES

POSTSEASON ASSIGNMENTS

PROFESSIONAL

•Officials assigned to NFL playoff games are listed. Crew order is referee, umpire, down judge, line judge, field judge, side judge, back judge, replay official, replay assistant.

AFC Wild Card — Houston 45, Cleveland 14: Clay Martin, Tab Slaughter, Fred Bryan, Greg Bradley, Alonzo Ramsey, Dave Hawkshaw, Greg Wilson, Brian Matoren, Bryant Thompson. Kansas City 26, Miami 7: Brad Rogers, Ramon George, Kent Payne, Kevin Codey, Tra Boger, Don Willard, Terrence Miles, Matt Sumstine, Tim England Buffalo 31, Pittsburgh 17: Carl Cheffers, Brandon Cruse, Mike Carr, Tom Eaton, Jabir Walker, Boris Cheek, Jonah Monroe, Kevin Brown, Gerald Frye. NFC Wild Card — Green Bay 48, Dallas 32: Ron Torbert, Bryan Neale, Max Causey, Julian Mapp, Ryan Dickson, Dominique Pender, Todd Prukop, Jamie Nicholson, Larry Hill Jr. Detroit 24, Los Angeles Rams 23: Craig Wrolstad, Mark Pellis, Jim Mello, Tripp Sutter, Jeff Shears, Dale Shaw, Jimmy Russell, Kevin Stine, Gavin Anderson. Tampa Bay 32, Philadelphia 9: Adrian Hill, Duane Heydt, David Oliver, Mark Stewart, Mearl Robinson, Lo van Pham, Greg Steed, Roddy Ames, Joe Wollan

AFC Divisional — Baltimore 34, Houston 10: John Hussey, Carl Paganelli, Frank LeBlanc, Carl Johnson, Tom Hill, Allen Baynes, Matt Edwards, Andrew Lambert, Larry Hanson. Kansas City 27, Buffalo 24: Shawn Hochuli,

Terry Killens, Patrick Holt, Tim Podraza, Anthony Flemming, Eugene Hall, Greg Meyer, Tyler Cerimeli, Tim Robinson. NFC Divisional — San Francisco 24, Green Bay 21: Alex Kemp, Mike Morton, Danny Short, Daniel Gallagher, John Jenkins, James Coleman, Scott Helverson, Mike Chase, Jamie Alferi Tuss. Detroit 31, Tampa Bay 23: Bill Vinovich, Alex Moore, Tom Stephan, Mark Perlman, Joe Blubaugh, Jimmy Buchanan, Brad Freeman, Mark Butterworth, Julie Johnson. AFC Championship — Kansas City 17, Baltimore 10: Shawn Smith, Roy Ellison, Jerod Phillips, Jeff Seeman, Nate Jones, Anthony Jeffries, Dino Paganelli, Mike Wimmer, Sebrina Brunson NFC Championship — San Francisco 34, Detroit 31: Clete Blakeman, Barry Anderson, Dana McKenzie, Rusty Baynes, Flemming, Chad Hill, Grantis Bell, Chad Adams, Frye. Super Bowl XLVIII — Kansas City 25, San Francisco 22: Vinovich, Killens, Holt, Perlman, Tom Hill, Allen Baynes, Freeman, Chase, Jack Persampire

POSTSEASON ASSIGNMENTS

COLLEGE

•Officials assigned to college football bowl games are listed.

Crew order is referee, umpire, head linesman, line judge, field judge, side judge, back judge, replay official, communicator. Conference affiliation appears in parenthesis.

Myrtle Beach Dec. 16: Ohio 41, Georgia Southern 21 (MWC)

— Patrick Foy, Austin Wright, Joe Stahmer, John Kilmer, Kenny Wilson, Duane Moku, Christopher Bailey, Jace Carlson, Bill Stimmel, Rod McClain.

New Orleans Dec. 16: Jacksonville St. 34, Louisiana

31 (OT) (AAC) — Steven Anderson, Tony Barrial, Jeff Pruitt, Colin Gaynor, Ben Vasconcells, Ryan Robinson, Matt Hill, Mark Mobra, Johnathan Schwanbeck, Don Guidry.

Cure Dec. 16: Appalachian St. 13, Miami (Ohio) 9 (C-USA)

— Rory Bernard, Stephen Marshall, Bob Pritchett, Stephen Henley, Clarence Cotton, Maurice Pierre, Terry Woodford, Greg Mitchell, Jim Campbell, Bryan Liles

New Mexico Dec. 16: Fresno St. 37, New Mexico St. 10 (Sun Belt) — Marshall Lewis, Stanford Jackson, Elijah Ajayi, Matthew Loughren, Grant Jackson, Keythric Merriweather, Charles Daugherty, Joshua Tucker, Terry Walters, Louis Hilliard Jr.

Los Angeles Dec. 16: UCLA

35, Boise St. 22 (ACC) — Gary Patterson, Michael Prowell, Josiah Ford, Jim Casey, Harry Tyson, Aaron Hochuli, Ken Bushey, Charles Lamertina, Tom McCreesh, Rick Page.

Independence Dec. 16: Texas Tech 34, Cal 14 (ACC) — Jerry Magallanes, Troy Riley, Michael Kelley, Peter Beratta, Michael Cullin, Jerry Walter, Frederick Dimpfel, Art Brown, Thomas Considine, Carlos Guzman.

Famous Toastery Dec. 18: Western Kentucky 38, Old Dominion 35 (OT) (MAC)

— Andrew Speciale, John Hanneke, Marc Shield, Michael Williams, Brad Brunet, Brett Henninger, Bill Foltz, Dan Novak, Andrew McGrath, Jason Boykin.

Frisco Dec. 19: UTSA 35, Marshall 17 (C-USA) — Rodney Burnette, Cornelius Arnick, Jeff Mikus, Jonathan May, Lark Jones, Jonathan Bullock, Byron Adams, Dan Lewis, Rodney Johnstone, Don Mosca.

Boca Raton Dec. 21: South Florida 45, Syracuse 0 (Sun Belt) — Trennis Livingston, Mark Baynes, Stuart Slaughter, Travis Muhammad,

Brandon Harris, Fred Wiedower, Wayne Johnson, Dustin Whitehead, Chris Rape, Colin Backert.

Gasparilla Dec. 22: Georgia Tech 30, UCF 17 (Pac-12)

— Cravonne Barrett, Brad Robinson, Rich Troyer, Bob Day, Todd Migchelbrink, J.B. Garza, Antony Little, Toby Johnson, Jerry Meyerhoff, Dave Pieczynski.

Birmingham Dec. 23: Duke 17, Troy 10 (MWC) — Nolan Dumas, David Williams, George Shoup, Justin Gragg, Mark Brull, Danny Hoeft, Brian Wirfel, Charlie Hurd, Paul Verna, Nathan Chitwood.

Camellia Dec. 23: Northern Illinois 21, Arkansas St. 19 (AAC) — Kevin Randall, Brandon Wood, Joshua Whittington, Lance Thompson, Glen Wilson, Dustin Drawhorn, James Sima, Joe Clarkson, James Schaefer, Rod Whittier.

Armed Forces Dec. 23: Air Force 31, James Madison 21 (AAC) — Nate Black, Anthony Gibson, Graig Reed, James Bryant, Jonathan Zenquis, Martine Jones, Chris Scott, Josh Larson, Michael Stevens, Wayne Pollard.

Famous Idaho Potato Dec. 23: Georgia St. 45, Utah St. 22 (MAC) — Jeremy Valentine, William Steinke, Mike Lowenberg, Sam Mattaway, Pat Dolphin, Jen Berke, Damon Wilcox, Tony Romano, Keith Zirbel, Dennis Jackson.

68 Ventures Dec. 23: South Alabama 59, Eastern Michigan 10 (MWC) — Cal McNeill, John Schindler, Greg Downum, Steve Hoslett, Trey Castleberry, Keith Claiborne, Michael Aaronian, Ian Malepeai, Deven Nash, Eric Dumatrait.

Las Vegas Dec. 23: Northwestern 14, Utah 7 (Big 12) — Kevin Boitmann, Sheldon Davis, Cat Conti, David Young, Ed Vinzant, James Murphy, Lyndon Nixon, Corey Long, Dee Anderson, Terry Porter.

Hawai’i Dec. 23: Coastal Carolina 24, San Jose St. 14 (MAC) — Greg Sujack, Bob Holcomb, Matt Griebel, Gary Jagodzinski, Kendal Smith, Scott MacDonald, Devin Aller, Kendall Gant, Don Bondy, Ken Myers.

Quick Lane Dec. 26:

Minnesota 30, Bowling Green 24 (AAC) — Tim Rich, Bill Lamkin, Braden Cox, Keegan Ashbee, DJ Hynes, Sean McKinnie, Ryan Pike, John Dostal, Mark Larson, Steve Hazle.

First Responder Dec. 26: Texas St. 45, Rice 21 (C-USA)

— Ed Ardito, DJ Johnson, Matthew Mount, Derrick Ralser, Leroy Jones Jr., Adrian Carson, Andy Lebo, Tyrone Fort II, Todd Rath, Justin Lucas.

Guaranteed Rate Dec. 26: Kansas 49, UNLV 36 (ACC)

— Timothy Hedgepeth, Tom Laverty, Dan Harrington, Jim Slayton, Jake Dishaw, Milton Britton, Pat Ryan, Ryan Wingers, John Busch, Bill Hanlon.

Military Dec. 27: Virginia Tech 41, Tulane 20 (Sun Belt) — Jeremy Parker, Ryan Aulds, Richard Godfrey, Jonathan Eubanks, Charles Green, Brandon Kirkland, Jimmy Colwell, Anthony Hayes, Steve Joest, Bryan Beckering.

Duke’s Mayo Dec. 27: West Virginia 30, North Carolina 10 (Big Ten) — Jerry McGinn, Ryan McClellan, Kristopher Loving Jr., Vince Winters, Raymond Daniel, Steve Verbridge, Jeff Latkiewicz, Francisco Villar, Ken Koester, Terry Young.

Holiday Dec. 27: USC 42, Louisville 28 (SEC) — Lee Hedrick, Stan Weihe, Randall Kizer, Chris Snuggs, Albert Bryant, Victor Sanchez, Ron Turner, Andy Faust, Ken Switzer, Jamie Williams.

Texas Dec. 27: Oklahoma St. 31, Texas A&M 23 (Big Ten) — Chris Coyte, Jim Shaw, Kris Van Meter, Rudy Studd, Ryan Gannon, Gaylon Williams, Mike Elliott, Ron Kay, Dave Witvoet, Rick Nelson.

Fenway Dec. 28: Boston College 23, SMU 14 (Big 12) — Kevin Mar, Marlow Fitzgerald, John Braun, Darren Deckard, Robert Asel, Rick Ockey, Terry Jones, Dan Scanlan, Gene Semko, Tony Bates.

Pinstripe Dec. 28: Rutgers 31, Miami 24 (Pac-12) — Justin Elliott, Bryan Hay, Kirk Mattison, Jon Stabile, Brad Glenn, Karina Tovar, David Ross, Michael Marsh, Jim Northcott, Melissa Barlow.

Pop-Tarts Dec. 28: Kansas St. 28, NC St. 19 (Big Ten) —

Larry Smith, Ken Zelmanski, Ryan MacDonald, Jeff Meslow, Nicole Randolph, Grady Smith, Kevin Schwarzel, Mike Stumberg, Tom Herbert, Dennis Lipski.

Alamo Dec. 28: Arizona 38, Oklahoma 24 (SEC) — David Smith, Rodney Lawary, Stephen Ray, Chuck Rice, Allan Nicholson, Brandon Spencer, Brett Toney, Joel Moenkoff, Jon Bible, Blake Parks.

Gator Dec. 29: Clemson 38, Kentucky 35 (Pac-12) — John Love, Roscoe Meisenheimer, Harold Mitchell, Tim Messuri, Michael Hall, Shane Anderson, Justin Nelson, Jason Gant, Dan Antonietti, Steve Kovac.

Sun Dec. 29: Notre Dame 40, Oregon St. 8 (SEC) — Scott Walker, Tom Quick, Chad Green, Michael Shirey, Scotty Melancon, Bryan Murphy, Dax Hill, Brian Davis, Jordan Craddock, Dan Moore.

Liberty Dec. 29: Memphis 36, Iowa St. 26 (SEC) — Matt Loeffler, Brent Sowell, Jake Weatherford, Mickey Bryson, Raymond Tate III, Jesse Dupuy, Paul Schardein, Jason McArthur, John Allmond, Bryan Greenwood.

Cotton Dec. 29: Missouri 14, Ohio St. 3 (Big 12) — Derek Anderson, Michael Henderson, Matt Burks, Kelly Deterding, Scott Gaines, Mario Seneca, Donnie Aultman, Marvel July, Brad Van Vark, Gerry Austin Jr.

Peach Dec. 30: Ole Miss 38, Penn St. 25 (Pac-12) — Mike McCabe, Matthew Jordan, Darryl Johnson, Matt Dornan, Kevin Kieser, Dion Spenard, Steve Hudson, Ty Druse, Jim Laborde, Jeff Yock.

Music City Dec. 30: Maryland 31, Auburn 13 (Big 12)— David Alvarez, Rick Podraza, Rick Smith, Mark Estermyer, Joseph Martinez, Mark Graves, Brian Ernest, Abram Anaya, Richard Brown, Alex Vaughn.

Orange Dec. 30: Georgia 63, Florida St. 3 (Big Ten) — Greg Blum, Brad Hudak, BJ Henry, Sergio DeHoyos, Lamont Simpson, Joel Clay, Dennis Morris, Greg Nelson, Tom Kissinger, Matt Aloisio.

Arizona Dec. 30: Wyoming 16, Toledo 15 (Sun Belt) — Ted Pitts, Trenton Crawford, Brett

Denton, Terry Allgeier, Jordan Holland, Major Sosebee, Rob Vonckx, Lonnie Brickman, Marty Abezetian, Eric Pollard.

ReliaQuest Jan. 1: LSU 35, Wisconsin 31 (Pac-12) — Mark Duddy, Michael Stephens, John Fallman, Jeff Hutcheon, Shane Standley, Bernie Hulscher, Joe Johnston, Dwayne Johnson, Terry Leyden, Scott Countryman.

Fiesta Jan. 1: Oregon 45, Liberty 6 (SEC) — Steve Marlowe, Walt Hill, Ralph Green, Chad Lorance, Phil Davenport, Justin Larrew, Tom Fimmen, Marc Curles, David Almand, Tyronne Anderson.

Citrus Jan. 1: Tennessee 35, Iowa 0 (ACC) — Jeff Heaser, Sean Geraghty, Arthur Hardin, Alex Amaya, Hugh Brown, Tony Tarantini, Scott Prewitt, Anthony Calabrese, Rimas Kozica, Patrick McAnaney.

Rose Jan. 1: Michigan 27, Alabama 20 (OT) (Big 12) — Michael Vandervelde, Robert Richeson, Andy Warner, Keith Garmond, Gabriel DeLeon, Fulton Carson, Daniel Young, Chris Tallent, Mark Marsden, Buddy Gingras.

Sugar Jan. 1: Washington

37, Texas 31 (Big Ten) — Ron Snodgrass, Ed Feaster, Ric Hinkamper, Jim Wharrie, Kyle DeBuse, Matt Kukar, Jake Kemp, Bryan Banks, Brian Smith, Mike Conlin.

National Championship Jan. 8: Michigan 34, Washington

13 (ACC) — Marcus Woods, Danny Worrell, Troy Gray, Deon Lawrence, Wayne Rundell, Michael McCarthy, Michael Griffith, Larry Saunders, Mark McAnaney, Jeff Roberson

AWARDS & HONORS

•USA Field Hockey, Colorado Springs, Colo., presented its 2023 Annual Awards Jan. 8. The awards recognize, honor and celebrate individuals across the field hockey community whose contributions have made a major and lasting impact on field hockey in the U.S., according to USA Field Hockey’s website. Recipients were Allie Mikelson, National

Umpire Award; Amanda Lawson, Grow the Game Award; Tiffany Cappellano, National Coach Award; Kaitlyn Wagner and Ashley Renshaw, Humanitarian Award; and Needham Youth Field Hockey, National Club of the Year Award.

•The Illinois High School Association named its Officials of the Year in January: Boys’ soccer — Jay Weis, Mundelein; girls’ soccer

— Kevin Parker, Lombard; football — Fred Steinway, Quincy; boys’ basketball — Darrin Sortor, Sherman; girls’ basketball — Kenneth Pink, Arlington Heights; boys’ lacrosse — Scott Rogowski, Algonquin; girls’ lacrosse

— Patrick Nolan, Elmwood Park; baseball — John Cyr, Woodridge; softball — James Bauser, Springfield; girls’ volleyball — Sharon Walker, Stanford; boys’ volleyball — Aaron Woods, Channahon; boys’ swimming and diving — Mark Markwell, South Elgin; girls swimming and diving — Patricia Flesher, Waukegan; water polo — Colleen Lyons, Homer Glen; cross country — Leo Vandervlugt, Chillicothe; boys’ track and field — Thomas Miller, Carpentersville; girls’ track and field — Kelley Lucas, Mount Zion; girls’ gymnastics — Hilary Carlson, Bloomingdale; competitive cheerleading

— April Mahy, New Lenox; competitive dance — Laura Panuska, Woodridge; wrestling

— Derek Ryan, Kankakee.

OBITUARIES

• George Str nad, 77, of Milwaukee, died Dec. 26, 2023. He officiated high school baseball, softball and soccer.

• Edward (Eddie) Barker, 53, of Hammond, La., died Jan. 25. A 30-year basketball referee, Barker began officiating football and baseball within the past few years. He also added volleyball to his officiating resume in 2023.

Do you have any rosters, assignments or awards that warrant mention?

Send info to us at

ForTheRecord@referee.com

Does the CTA Apply to Me?

By Joe Aguilar

Many of my fellow officials have been asking about the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). They want to know what it means and, more significantly, whether it applies to them. The answer to the latter question: It depends.

The (CTA) for existing businesses was enacted Jan. 1 and imposes a federal filing requirement on most corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships and certain other business entities. These businesses are formed by filing with a state secretary of state or similar official. It also applies to foreign business entities registering for business in the U.S.

Some officials form LLCs for their officiating endeavors.

Some officials form LLCs for their officiating endeavors.

No later than Dec. 31, 2024, all non-exempt business entities previously described must file a beneficial owner information report (BOI report) with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) — the Treasury Department’s financial intelligence unit. Think of it as a game report, but you must only file it once if you are not changing addresses like you change planes.

The BOI report discloses the identities and provides contact information for all of the entity’s “beneficial owners” — humans who either:

1.Control 25% of the ownership interests in the entity or,

2.Exercise substantial control over the entity.

Your BOI report will contain all the following information for each beneficial owner:

•Full legal name

•Date of birth

•Complete current residential street address. (Not the Hilton,

Marriott, etc., where you spend most of your time like I do.)

•A unique identifying number (with image) from either a current U.S. passport, state or local ID document or driver’s license or, if the individual has none of those, a foreign passport.

FinCEN will create a BOSS (Beneficial Ownership Secure System) database for the BOI data to help law enforcement agencies prevent using anonymous shell companies for money laundering, tax evasion, terrorism and other illegal purposes.

Some businesses are exempt from the CTA, including:

•Larger businesses with 20 or more employees and $5 million in receipts.

•Businesses heavily regulated by the government, such as publicly traded corporations, banks, insurance companies, nonprofits and others.

The CTA does not apply to most states’ sole proprietors or general partnerships. But it does apply to single-member LLCs, even though the tax code disregards such entities and taxes them on Schedule C, E or F of Form 1040.

The initial BOI filing does not expire; you don’t need to renew it. However, you must keep the BOI report up to date by reporting any changes to FinCEN within 30 days of occurrence.

A person who willfully violates the BOI reporting requirements may be subject to civil penalties of up to $500 each day the violation continues and may also be subject to criminal penalties of up to two years imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000.

For frequently asked questions, refer to fincen.gov/boi-faqs.

If you need further assistance with this or other tax matters, contact a tax professional.

Joe Aguilar, EA, MBA, CIA, CGAP, CCSA, is a collegiate and professional indoor and beach volleyball referee with a home base in Denver. He owns Eagle Tax Res Inc. (eagletaxres.com), which focuses on resolving tax issues for clients nationwide. 

Officiate, Don’t Instigate With Fans

While officials have the responsibility of policing the players and coaches, interactions with spectators are to be avoided at all costs, said Alan Goldberger, sports law expert, at the 2023 Sports Officiating Summit in Riverside, Calif.

“You should not be involved in any altercation with a fan because as an official you should never, ever be addressing a fan or permitting a fan or spectator or onlooker or a person who was hanging out in the field house to engage you,” Goldberger said during the Legal and Liability breakout session. “We make very sure that our clients are aware of the fact … that we do not address spectators. There are no qualifications to attend a sporting event in the United States of America. A spectator is not your peer. He or she never will be. So, it’s senseless to engage with them because bad things happen. Altercations, assaults, even homicides — we shouldn’t act surprised. So, do not engage with spectators.”

Don’t Neglect to Inspect

An official’s legal responsibilities include taking all appropriate precautions to start a game or match on a playing field or surface that is safe.

For outdoor venues, a visual inspection of the perimeter, including fences and areas containing goals, nets, posts or other apparatus, can disclose hazards such as broken glass, holes large enough to accommodate a human foot and protruding sprinkler valves or drainage pipes.

While outdoor sports fields may cover a large swath of land, some members of the crew will need to walk the perimeter of the field to check line markings and clearances, and to note any conditions that need to be corrected before play can begin. Indoor officials can often cover the court inspections visually without physically pacing the entire gym. In both situations, though, your safety watch has begun once you are on the playing surface.

ADAPTED FROM A 11/19 LAW COLUMN BY ALAN GOLDBERGER.

PRESENTED BY

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QUIZ ANSWERS

BASKETBALL

1 — All – c (NFHS 6-3-3; NCAAM/W 6-2.8)

2 — NFHS, NCAAW – b (NFHS 4-8-1a, 4-12-6; NCAAW 4-8.4.c, 8-2.1); NCAAM – a (4-9.4.c, 8-2.1)

3 —All – c (NFHS 4-36-2a, 7-5-3; NCAAM 4-28.1.d, 7-4.8, 7-5.1.a; NCAAW 4-23.1.d, 7-4.10, 7-5.1.a)

4 — NFHS – c (8-3); NCAAM/W –a (NCAAM 8-3.4; NCAAW 8-3.3)

5 — All – a (NFHS 2-12-3; NCAAM 2-10.1, 2-10.8; NCAAW 2-10.1, 2-10.8, A.R. 3)

BASEBALL

1 — All – a (NFHS 2-24-1; NCAA 2-33, 8-5-j Exc.; pro Force Play Definition)

2 — All – d (NFHS 2-19, 5-1; NCAA 2-48 Note, 7-11q Note; pro Infield Fly Definition)

3 — NFHS, pro – a (NFHS 10-1-4; pro 8.02a); NCAA – e (3-6f Note 1)

4 — All – a (NFHS 6-1-3; NCAA 9-1a; pro 5.07a2)

5 — All – b (NFHS 2-22-1, 8-3-

2; NCAA 2-55, 8-3e1 Note; pro Obstruction Definition, 6.01h)

FOOTBALL

1 — Both – b (NFHS 6.1.9A; NCAA 2-27-15, AR 6-2-2 IV)

2 — NFHS – e (9-6-1, 9-6-2); NCAA – d (7-3-4)

3 — Both – a (NFHS 3-4-2, 5-13d; NCAA 3-3-2e-1)

4 — Both – b (NFHS 9-3-5b; NCAA 9-3-3c Exc. 3)

SOFTBALL

1 — All – c (NFHS 2-29; NCAA 11.16; USA Softball 1 – Infield Fly, 8-4L; USSSA 3 – Infield Fly, 8-17H)

2 — NFHS, USA Softball, USSSA

– a (NFHS 6-1-2b; USA Softball 6A-1E; USSSA 6-1E-2); NCAA – b (10.2.1.2, AR 10-2)

3 — All – a (NFHS 1-4-1a; NCAA 3.6.2; USA Softball 3-4; USSSA 2-9B)

4 — All – b (NFHS 8-4-3e Pen.; NCAA 12.12.8.3 Eff.; USA Softball 8-5G Eff.; USSSA 8-14C-3, 8-15C)

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APRIL

FLASHBACK

40 YEARS AGO … 1984

•Veteran college basketball and football referee Jack Savidge, 54, dies after battling a malignant brain tumor. Savidge officiated basketball, football and baseball for 28 years and had most recently worked the Missouri Valley Conference from 1968-82.

30 YEARS AGO …

1994

•After the 1993 high school and college football seasons are marred by an excess of bench-clearing brawls, the NFHS and NCAA football rules committees pass fightingrelated rule changes, including season-long suspensions for players and coaches who engage in multiple fights.

SOCCER

1 — All – b (NFHS 4-1-5; NCAA 4.1.16; IFAB 4.2)

2 — NFHS, NCAA – c (NFHS 15-1-5; NCAA 15.2.3) IFAB — a (15.1)

3 — All – c (NFHS 12-3-1B; NCAA 12.1.7.4; IFAB 12.1)

4 — All – b (NFHS 12-9-1f15; NCAA 12.7.4.4; IFAB 12.3)

5 — All – a (NFHS 12-9-1f10; NCAA 12.4.3.5; IFAB 12.3)

VOLLEYBALL

1 — All – a (NFHS 9-4-6d; NCAA 14.3.2.2; USAV 9.1.2.2)

2 — NFHS – b (11-2-3); NCAA – c (11.2.2); USAV – a (15.4.1)

3 — Both – b (NFHS 11-5-2; NCAA 8.4.2.3)

4 — All – b (NFHS 9-6-4; NCAA 14.6.4.2; USAV 14.3)

5 — All – b (NFHS 9-5-6b; NCAA 12.1.2.4; USAV 19.3.1.4)

6 — NFHS – a (12-2-5); NCAA – c (5.2.4.1); USAV – b (5.2.3.4, 5.3.1)

MISSION

Referee is a magazine written from an officiating perspective, blending editorial credibility and business viability. It educates, challenges and inspires officials at the youth, recreational, high school, collegiate and professional levels in all sports, with an emphasis on baseball, basketball, football, soccer, softball and volleyball. Referee is the journal of record for officiating and takes informed positions on selected issues. The magazine provides a forum for its readers, facilitates the flow of information, raises public consciousness about officials’ roles and serves as a catalyst for improved officiating worldwide.

20 YEARS AGO …

2004

•MLB umpire Steve Rippley retires during the 2003-04 offseason and is replaced by Dan Iassogna. Rippley’s 20-year career was highlighted by postseason assignments including four Division Series, three Championship Series and three World Series (1996, 1999 and 2001), as well as the 1990 All-Star Game.

10

YEARS AGO … 2014

•Referees from the Professional Soccer Referees Association return to work MLS games following a twoweek lockout to open the season. Replacement officials, including former international FIFA officials and former MLS officials, worked games during the lockout.

A Very Special Flyover

Growing up in a football officiating family, I have had the honor and privilege of being involved in some incredible experiences during my life.

I have been lucky enough to watch my father (former NFL official Walt Anderson, now the senior vice president of NFL officiating) work two Super Bowls, first as a line judge in Super Bowl XXV in 2001 and then as the referee in Super Bowl XLV in 2011.

But my brother wasn’t on the field standing next to me. Instead, he was in one of the two F-15s that flew overhead at the conclusion of the anthem.

I have had the opportunity to travel the country and officiate in some of the most iconic stadiums. Officiating has blessed me with the opportunity to work some highprofile games and allowed me to be a part of some very unique experiences working with amazing people.

One such experience took place this past college football season as my crew kicked off the year Sept. 3 in Orlando, Fla., at the Camping World Kickoff between then No. 5 LSU and No. 8 Florida State. While the experience of working those two nationally ranked teams on national television was enough to get the juices flowing, there was something even more memorable that took place prior to kickoff that I will never forget.

Listening to the national anthem and the excitement before the game is always something special for me. However, on that day, I had the opportunity to spend those few moments before kickoff with my brother, which made that day even more significant.

But my brother wasn’t on the field standing next to me. Instead, he was in one of the two F-15s that flew overhead at the conclusion of the anthem.

You see, my brother, Col. David Anderson, is the wing commander for the 159th Fighter Wing of the Louisiana Air National Guard. He is also a very good official in his own right, but with his crazy schedule in the National Guard and his elevations in his job, other things have taken precedence in his life.

I’ve had the honor of seeing my brother fly planes before. Two years ago, he knew well in advance his squadron was going to the Air Force Academy to do a flyover for a 20-year reunion at the school. My crew was assigned to work the game that weekend and we were able to see his crew fly over during the anthem. We flew our mom and our wives out and they got to see it. It was more of an experience for them.

My brother also had the opportunity to do that before one of my dad’s games between the New Orleans Saints and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. And when I became a referee, I thought it would be pretty special to get to experience

something like that in person as well.

To have it happen while being a referee, in an environment like that and while listening to the anthem, is a whole different experience. Knowing what he does, knowing all he has accomplished, and knowing all the sacrifices he’s made — not only for me and my family but our country — I couldn’t help but swell up with pride. I am extremely proud of all the things he has been able to accomplish and to be able to share in that unique experience and be a part of that game in that way, it was truly incredible.

I know this isn’t the only time this sort of thing has happened, but in that moment, on that stage, it was very special.

I think back to when the anthem was playing, and I still get emotional about it. My thoughts in that moment immediately went to my parents and the things my parents provided for us. I couldn’t help but think of my mother and all the things she sacrificed by raising two boys, and all the influence my dad had on us.

My brother had the opportunity to come down to the sidelines during the third quarter of the game and then we had a chance to take some photos on the field afterward. Everyone was trying to rush us off the field at the conclusion of the game, but we had a few moments to take a photo and spend a little bit of time together. That experience will be something I will always treasure. Derek Anderson, Bellville, Texas, is an NCAA Division I football official working in the Big 12. He worked the majority of his career as a line judge before moving to referee in 2021. He has worked numerous bowl games, as well as the 2021 CFP National Championship Game, and works in the United Football League.

Do you have a personal officiating story to tell?

Send your story or queries to

lastcall@referee.com

IT’S OFFICIAL

High School With Officiating Class Goes Titanium

Taunton High School in Taunton, Mass., is one of four organizations to recently join NASO through its Association Advantage program.

Located 40 minutes south of Boston, Taunton High School boasts an offering that is starting to pop up at more schools around the country but remains rare: an officiating class. The course is a product of collaboration between Taunton High School and officiating education platform RefReps, which helped create a curriculum based on NFHS rules for the class.

“We did a couple of afterschool courses previously, but this is the first year we have a full-year, physical education elective class where the kids meet every day for officiating,” Taunton Athletic Director Mark Ottavianelli said. “We have a set curriculum, we have a physed teacher who’s also an official teaching the class. (The students) are in the classroom for five days and then they go on the court or field for five days.”

Ottavianelli — a former NCAA D-III college baseball official who has also worked basketball and field hockey — credits the idea for the class to Chris Green, who is a community liaison for Taunton Public Schools, an assistant

basketball coach at Taunton and a high school basketball official. Green and Ottavianelli understand the need to address the officiating shortage and get more young officials. Both cited NASO National Officiating Survey data that showed the average age of officials rose from 53.29 in 2017 to 56.68 in 2023.

“Every sport is growing in America,” Green said. “It’s not

Recently, a freshman soccer game in the area was nearly called off because the scheduled referees canceled. Two student officials from Taunton’s class were called to fill in, and that was when Ottavianelli decided to get NASO membership for his students, so they could benefit from the liability coverage.

“Our school system has been extremely supportive of this initiative,” Ottavianelli said. “When it came to the insurance piece, our superintendent said, ‘That’s great, let’s take care of the kids.’ Administration has been fantastic.”

stopping. So we’ve got to be prepared for that. We need to start training younger officials to do it. And that’s kind of how we came up with (this class).”

So far the class has covered soccer, basketball and volleyball, with more sports to come. The class’s 20 students learn mechanics and rules in the classroom and are tested on the material, and then apply what they learned while officiating games for Taunton-area leagues.

Taunton High School is one of two groups to recently join NASO Association Advantage at the Titanium level alongside Mission Valley Football Officials Association, a group serving the San Diego area. In addition, two groups joined at the Platinum Shield level: Arizona Hockey Referees Association from Anthem, Ariz., and Sports Officials Northwest LLC of Woodinville, Wash.   Association Advantage provides materials and services to member groups. Different levels of protection and training options allow groups to select what works for them. For details, go to nasoadvantage.com.  

NASO at National Athletic Directors Conference

NASO President Bill Topp was invited to speak at the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) National Athletic Directors Conference, Dec. 15-19, at Orlando World Center Marriott in Orlando, Fla.

The 54th National Athletic Directors Conference was co-sponsored by the NFHS and the NIAAA and brought together nearly 3,000 athletic administrators, spouses, guests and exhibitors from across

Editor: Julie Sternberg

Sports Editor: Brent Killackey

Graphic Designer: Dustin Brown

Contributors: Don Collins, George Demetriou, Alan Goldberger, Joe Jarosz, Patrick Rosenow, Tim Sloan, Brad Star, Jeffrey Stern, Brad Tittrington, Scott Tittrington, Bill Topp

NASO BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Robert Smith, Waterloo, Iowa, Chair

Lisa Jones, Chandler, Ariz., Vice Chair

Bill Topp, Racine, Wis., President

Dana Pappas, Lebanon, Ind., Secretary

*Bill Carollo, Shorewood, Wis., Treasurer

*Ron Foxcroft, Hamilton, Ontario, Special Adviser

*Barry Mano, Racine, Wis., Special Adviser

Dean Blandino, Santa Monica, Calif.

Paul LaRosa, Hendersonville, N.C.

Pati Rolf, Pewaukee, Wis.

Sandra Serafini, Yachats, Ore.

Ron Torbert, Hanover, Md.

Mark Uyl, DeWitt, Mich.

Rob Wigod, Los Alamitos, Calif.

*Non-voting members

NASO MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of NASO is to:

• Serve members by providing benefits and services.

• Improve officiating performance through educational programs.

• Advocate opportunities for officials and engage in programs to recruit and retain officials.

• Create alliances with organizations that benefit from healthy officiating programs.

• Enhance the image of officials.

© 2024 NASO/Referee Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved. It’s Official is published by the National Association of Sports Officials and Referee Enterprises, Inc.

Find NASO @ facebook.com/NASOofficiating

the United States. It is the country’s largest meeting of high school athletic directors.

Topp presented on the impact of sportsmanship on the officiating shortage and the 2023 NASO National Officiating Survey powered by Referee. com was the backbone of the presentation.

“Being able to present at this conference helps foster the relationship NASO has with NFHS and what they are trying to accomplish in terms of sportsmanship and the recruitment and retention of officials,” Topp said.

This is the first time NASO has presented at the conference The idea came out of the NFHS Consortium meetings which Topp and Ken Koester, Referee’s chief business development officer, attended in early 2023. Topp spoke at the consortium and was approached by NIAAA Associate Executive Director Rich Barton to speak at the conference.

The conference consisted of 40 different workshops and featured keynote addresses by Jody Urquhart, one of north America’s top motivational speakers, and Jon Gordon, a well-renowned speaker, bestselling author and leadership expert.

“This event was a great opportunity to provide those who shape high school athletics with information taken directly from our national survey and help them understand we all need to work together to help recruit and retain

“This event was a great opportunity to provide those who shape high school athletics with information taken directly from our national survey and help them understand we all need to work together to help recruit and retain officials. ”

— Bill Topp

officials,” Topp said. “To be able to meet with everyone and network and try to come up with solutions to help with the officiating shortage is something we don’t take lightly, and we hope we can continue to foster and grow these relationships. It is extremely beneficial for NASO and its members to be involved in these settings and these discussions and we appreciate the opportunity.” 

With spring sports in full swing and summer just around the corner, now is the time to prepare and make sure you’re ready to take the field. Even veteran officials can benefit from regularly refreshing themselves on rules knowledge, especially if your sport changed any rules and/ or added new rules this past offseason.

Any new or altered rules will probably require you to update your officiating library, and if that’s the case, NASO has you covered. NASO members receive a 20 percent discount on all Referee and NASO publications available at store. referee.com.

The Referee Training Center at store.referee.com is the world’s largest resource of officiating training books and videos, helping officials both improve their individual skills and build their association’s

Boost Your Officiating Library

baseball package softball package

training program. Referee’s library covers football, basketball, baseball, soccer, volleyball, wrestling and more; publications are available digitally or in print.

Among the new additions to Referee’s catalog in 2024 include the 2024 NFHS High School Baseball Rules Simplified & Illustrated; 2024 NFHS High School Softball Rules Simplified & Illustrated; 2024-25 NFHS High

National Survey Says … Sportsmanship Is Worse

Sixty-nine percent of respondents to NASO’s 2023 National Officiating Survey powered by Referee.com think that sportsmanship is getting worse. Everyone has a role in improving sportsmanship, including officials. Don’t pass on enforcing penalties created to curb behavior.

Conducted during the spring and summer of 2023, the National Officiating Survey was completed by more than 35,000 sports officials from all levels and all sports. The data is available for research, study and analysis to anyone interested in the sports officiating industry at naso.org/survey.

School Softball Umpires Manual; Major Changes to High School Pitchers’ Footwork (softball); and 2024 Prep Baseball Annual Edition

Referee is also currently running specials for both batand-ball sports. You can save $42 on six baseball publications with the 2024 Baseball Training Package while the 2024 Softball Training Package will save you $21 for six softball publications. 

Officially Speaking

GHSA Coordinator of Officials Ernie Yarbrough on Return of NASO Summit to Atlanta

If at first you do succeed, then try, try again. Such is the belief of the Georgia High School Association (GHSA), which in 2011 played host to the NASO Summit in Atlanta. Buoyed by a record turnout of nearly 1,800 officials for the “state day” that runs in conjunction with the national event, state association leaders made it known they would welcome the opportunity to have NASO return in the future.

That future is now immediate, with the 2024 NASO Summit slated for July 28-30 in Atlanta. Officiate Georgia Day will again serve as the prelude, taking place on Saturday, July 27.

NASO spoke with Ernie Yarbrough, GHSA assistant executive director and coordinator of officiating, about the upcoming events and what they mean for officials in his state.

NASO: What are your feelings about the return of the NASO Summit to Georgia now 11 years after the first such gathering?

Yarbrough: Not only speaking for myself but speaking for our state office and the officiating community in Georgia, we are extremely excited about the opportunity to host again. Number one, we remember the excitement for the event. Number two, there is the additional challenge to not only meet what we did (in

2011) but try to exceed what we accomplished.

NASO: How has the Georgia officiating community reacted to having the opportunity to bring the Summit back to the state?

Yarbrough: It’s a whole different world once you are the host city. There’s an excitement that is generated. We are an officiating-rich state. We are probably, per capita, as strong as any state in having people at all levels (professional, collegiate, high school). All those people started at the youth level. The chance to host the Summit amplifies the experience for sports officials in the state of Georgia.

NASO: What were the aftereffects of the 2011 event and what did it mean to the local officiating community in the wake of hosting a Summit?

Yarbrough: What we saw was a renewed excitement from the officiating world. What folks don’t realize until they sit there and they listen to all of these folks that have worked at the highest levels in their respective sports … they realize they all started where we did. That’s the exciting part about it.

NASO: What does it mean for the Georgia officiating community to be able to partner with a national organization like NASO?

Yarbrough: We are so pleased with the partnership we’ve had with NASO over the years. We have a tremendous relationship with NASO. For us, we look at Officiating Georgia Day as the kickoff; we’re going to provide a great impetus into the

NASO Summit by bringing our folks into Atlanta, just letting them walk the halls … the kickoff to what we think is just a phenomenal four days there in Atlanta.

NASO: How much has previously hosting the event helped in preparation for doing so again?

Yarbrough: Once NASO made the announcement we were going to be the host city, we didn’t wait. Folks don’t realize there’s a lot of layers to hosting this thing. We actually started immediately for the Summit and our Officiate Georgia Day. We talked with folks about the challenges and we feel like we’ve gotten a little bit ahead of things.

NASO: Any parting words now that we are just a few months away from this year’s Summit?

Yarbrough: We really appreciate the assistance that we’ve gotten along the way from the folks at NASO. We’ve had a great partnership with them for many, many years. People don’t realize how much the Summit and Officiate Day mean to NASO and how much they want to see it be a success for the host states. 

Brook Park Leads the Way to Protect Sports Officials

The city of Brook Park, Ohio, became the first known municipality to pass a law protecting sports officials. The measure, developed to keep officials safe at athletic events within the city, passed Oct. 17 with a 5-2 vote at the City Council meeting and was signed by the mayor.

Park will become a blueprint for other cities trying to protect officials. Brook Park Ward 4 councilman Richard Scott, who introduced and pushed for the city’s protection legislation, hopes the efforts extend to other areas.

As part of the process of developing the law, Brook Park reached out to NASO for information. The ordinance also references NASO in one of many explanations for the new law, stating, “The National Association of Sports Officials has found that their members are frequently the subject of significant verbal abuse and other mistreatment during a sports event and, on occasion, thereafter.” Some of the other reasons include officiating numbers have dropped due to disorderly conduct, officials have had to remove fans for their behavior toward officials, and disorderly conduct toward officials is detrimental to the overall experience of those who attend sports events.

According to the new law, individuals who engage in a physical confrontation with a sports official, cause physical harm to an official, or create an atmosphere where an official is unable to continue their service without a stoppage in play have committed disorderly conduct at a sports event in Brook Park and will be subject to a misdemeanor of the first, second or third degree. It is up to the prosecutor to determine the degree of misdemeanor.

Time will tell whether Brook

Time will tell whether Brook Park will become a blueprint for other cities trying to protect officials.

“I’ve passed out a copy of our legislation to the surrounding cities to have them look at it,” Scott said, “and maybe we can get a joint venture, not just city wide but area wide, to try to move forward on protecting sports officials.

“And from what I understand, the council clerk has gotten some requests for the legislation. So, basically, I want to try and kick start this in Ohio to get something going.”

Ohio, along with many other states, continues to pursue at the state level to protect officials. NASO is ready and available to assist cities and states with legislative efforts by providing information, consultation, and written or verbal testimony as needed. State legislation information is also available at naso.org/resources/legislation. 

From the Chair Ready and Able

By Robert Smith

I’ve talked often about how honored I feel, having the opportunity to serve as chair of the NASO board. It’s not a place I ever expected to find myself. As a young man growing up in South Dallas (if you’re unfamiliar with it, just watch an episode of “48 Hours,”) playing Pop Warner football, I didn’t even know there were governing or advisory organizations for the officials I encountered on the field.

Having had doors opened for me, grace provided to me, and growth allowed for me, I also feel strongly about ensuring that others have similar opportunities. My lived experience, from Dallas to Iowa, from Pop Warner to officiating at the BCS national championship football game, is a perfect example of diversity in action.

Diversity: Why It Works

We know for a fact seeking diversity works. A quick internet search will gain you some pretty startling proof. The well-regarded research teams at McKinsey & Co. note the following: “Our latest analysis reaffirms the strong business case for both gender diversity and ethnic and cultural diversity in corporate leadership and shows that this business case continues to strengthen. The most diverse companies are now more likely than ever to outperform less diverse peers on profitability.”

In McKinsey’s 2019 analysis, companies in the top quartile for

gender diversity on executive teams were 25% more likely to have above-average profitability than companies in the fourth quartile. Companies in topquartile for ethnic diversity outperformed those in the fourth one by 36% in profitability … even higher than those with high gender diversity.

That’s a fancy way of saying that when you open the door to everyone, and you provide a level playing field, you are likely to get a better product (or make more money, produce more widgets, etc.). Please, look for yourself. Pretty much every other study will tell you the same thing.

I’ve always tried to bring thoughtful, strategic diversity into my various workplaces. I see the value in bringing forward opportunities for (and voices of) individuals who think, believe and live in ways different from myself. Using that model of inviting historically underrepresented populations to our table, I believe we can have a great deal of success in the officiating arena. We accept — and even expect — diversity in various areas of our lives: in the military, for instance. We easily picture all Americans standing tall, hands over hearts, ready to help defend our country. We can have that same picture when we think of officiating.

Diversity: The Misunderstanding

Today the word diversity is easily misunderstood. There is a sense that when we practice the pursuit of diversity, we seek to give one group an unfair advantage over those of us who

have worked long and hard for our rewards.

But that isn’t what we want. We aren’t talking about anyone being given anything. That was never the intent. The intent is to allow for growth and grace. Historically, individuals who are not members of underrepresented populations have been given those same opportunities. Everyone should earn the right to go to the next level. Whether it’s officiating at the BCS national championship game or serving on the NASO board, the pursuit of diversity was never meant to create an atmosphere where individuals don’t have to work for the right to move to the next level. The intent is to open the door and, when we do, to allow those coming through to make mistakes (because none of us are perfect). The intent was that when women and people of color do make mistakes they are given time, grace and thoughtful critique so they can grow and advance. In this business, those of us who succeeded were given that grace and opportunity to be nurtured after we made mistakes. It is why we’ve advanced.

Let’s use that attitude and approach to develop a thoughtful and strategic method for recruiting women and people of color into the special and unique world of officiating. We know there’s a shortage of officials. Why not use the “blue water” approach fishing in waters that haven’t been depleted to replenish our rolls? The people at the top need only invite them in; they’re ready and able. 

Value Added

By Dave Westol

Ask board members of most officials associations this question: “How would you gauge your value as an association to your members?” And then take a step back. Here come the generalizations and unsupported conclusions.

bring in a facilitator — someone who isn’t on the board and who doesn’t care about the outcome. And let’s put the feedback on the table for discussion followed by “How can we add value for our members?”

“We’re doing … fine.”

“We have some good things happening.”

And the classic response? “No one has complained to me.”

What do these responses have in common? No specificity. No proof. No basis for comparison.

To add value, let’s begin with where your association is, present tense.

Survey members. Make it brief — three questions or less. If you want real feedback, use a text box so participants can offer their opinions. And make it anonymous. Of course, you’ll receive some generalized vanilla responses, but you will also receive some thoughtful and astute responses.

Focus groups. Focus groups are a great opportunity for board members to get out there and listen. Ask the coordinators or chairpersons of a meeting for 12-15 minutes on a given evening … keep the groups small … have 4-6 questions in hand … take good notes … and listen.

Then, divide the responses from the survey and the focus groups into three categories. “Yes,” “Maybe” and “Nope.” Put recommendations that have merit into “Yes.” Put those that have potential into “Maybe.”

Now that you have feedback in hand, meet as the board and

Plan on at least two hours for this meeting. Don’t spend more than 25 percent of your time on the survey and focus group feedback. It is important to know where your association is, but that is step one. Step two is doing something about it and that is the 75 percent portion. The board needs to invest its time in blunt, candid conversations that lead to a strategy.

Think conceptually. Instead of, “Let’s talk about holding our membership fee steady,” think, “What do we truly offer members for their membership fee? Specifically? Can we reduce the fee and still provide services?”

And what value can we add to our association for members?

Most board members think first of resources. How can we, for example, help our officials do a better job in their avocation?

ASSOCIATION ADVANTAGE

Running a local officials association is demanding. You volunteer your time and effort to make it the best you can. But there’s no reason you have to do it alone. NASO Association Advantage exists to help you face any challenge and elevate your association in the process. Whatever challenges you have — training, insurance, legal issues, meeting help, bylaws and organization, membership issues and more — WE HAVE A SOLUTION TO MEET YOUR NEEDS.

PLATINUM & PLATINUM SHIELD

Association Advantage Platinum is the premier resource for maximizing the performance of your group, providing leadership and administrative resources to help you elevate your organization with a focus on training,

FROM OUR DATABASE

Dig deeper here. What resources don’t we provide?

Are the clinics being offered by your association well organized? Even if those are offered to members at no or very little expense, are the clinics worth the investment of time?

What is your association doing to impact the lives of its members and others in the community? Using the timehonored golf tournament? Or developing new programs?

What is your association doing to attract new officials? That aspect alone could occupy the board for a solid two hours.

Adding value begins with a pragmatic assessment. And then follow it with a solid “What if?” session to allow board members to do what they should be doing — channeling their energy and ideas into improving the association. If your board is developing, creating, debating and thinking about ways to improve the value of the association, that is progress. David Westol is principal and owner for Limberlost Consulting, Inc., in Carmel, Ind. 

assigning, legal issues and best practices specific to local officials association management.

TITANIUM & TITANIUM SHIELD

The Titanium solution is ideal for officials associations that want to maximize their organization’s performance while fully protecting both their organization and individual members.

DIAMOND

The most comprehensive solution for officials associations that want to fully protect both their organization and individual members, as well as provide full training and testing solutions with an emphasis on video. Association Advantage Diamond is the ultimate answer to every challenge your association faces.

To learn more, go to NASO.org/Advantage or call us at 262-632-5448

Assigning Shortage Liability

By Donald C. Collins

QThe shortage of sports officials has resulted in assigners using some officials with less experience on bigger games. Does that open the assigner up to liability if an injury occurs because of a perceived officiating error or a fight occurs because of perceived lack of officiating game management?

Arequirement, to passing the test required at certain levels of play, to meeting the three-step Safe Sport requirement of a national governing body.

Assigners and associations can be liable for negligent assigning. They can also be liable for breaching contracts.

It is important to note the mere act of assigning an official with less experience on big games or breaking in an official at a level of play is not a basis of liability. Also, perceptions that one set of officials are not as good as others is not a basis of liability. Coaches, players and even spectators may pine for the officials they’re used to seeing, but an assigner does not become liable simply because he or she didn’t assign the veterans.

We assign and officiate to a standard.

The assigner must have knowledge the officials know the rules, can exercise reasonable judgment in applying them, have sufficient skill to exercise that judgment at the level they’re being asked to officiate, and understand how to implement a broad array of safety procedures and administrative functions.

The assigner must also know whether the official meets any licensing requirements. Those requirements could range from a state high school governing body’s registration/certification

An assigner can assign an official who hasn’t worked at a level before, and an assigner can assign an official who hasn’t worked specific big games before as long as the official meets the standard. Indeed, an assigner who failed to periodically do this would create a legal problem. They would be forced to keep using the same officials over and over, and eventually they’d use one of those officials past the point where that official met the standard. Assigners must remember that past performance does not guarantee current ability; it is essential that assigners have knowledge of the ability of the officials they assign.

Of course, an assigner could still negligently assign a new or veteran official who fails to meet the standard. Doing so triggers two distinct legal problems.

The first problem is a potential negligence problem. This problem occurs where a player is harmed by an official’s negligence. We would tend to see this in situations such as a player slipping on a wet court, or remaining in a game in violation of the concussion rule. It is important to note that, as in all negligence cases, the official’s negligent act must be accompanied by harm in order for the official to be liable, and the assigner to possibly be liable for making a negligent assignment.

The second problem is a contract problem. An assigner who knows he or she is assigning an official who doesn’t

meet the standard is breaching a contract with the league or team that contracts with the assigner even if the contract makes no mention of the officials meeting the standard.

All contracts have inherent preconditions, and an assigner’s precondition is he or she is assigning officials who meet the standards to work the contest. If the standards are set out in the contract or in governing body bylaws, then the breach is clear. Where the standards aren’t set out, the contract would still be voidable due to either fraud, misrepresentation, or a breach of an implied warranty to provide officials who meet the standard. A client school, team or league can void out their contract in such cases, and may even be able to pass on the costs of finding their replacement to the assigner or association that sent the officials who didn’t meet the standard.

In most cases, assigners aren’t acting maliciously. We have severe officiating shortages in most sports. The assigner who sends officials who don’t meet the standard is likely choosing expediency. But sending unqualified officials is too risky. Better to simply put rescheduling clauses in the contract and use a negotiated time frame for letting the client know the game has to be rescheduled due to a lack of officials. One does not need to be a lawyer to know that honesty, combined with standards, is still the best policy.

Donald C. Collins is a longtime basketball official and lawyer from San Francisco. This article is for informational purposes and is not legal advice.

sports section first impressions

By Leah Berard

coaches, players, and even spectators are sizing you up before you ever make a call. You only get one chance to make a first impression. That cannot be argued. It’s a fact, and as officials, facts do matter. It goes without saying you first need to look the part, with a clean and crisp looking uniform, before you can act the part. Gaining respect from the players and coaches before the initial whistle is even blown is important to start off on the right foot. It can be a long day on the field or court if the experience is started off on the left foot (no offense to left-footed people, of course). Here are some helpful tips to consider before you show up for your next game.

Arrive early. There’s a wellknown adage that arriving on time is arriving late. Although coaches and players act like they couldn’t care less if they had officials on any given day, they really do worry about us when we’re late. They don’t necessarily worry about our safety or well-being, at least not in that moment; however, it’s one less thing for the home team coach or manager to think about if all the officials are accounted for by the time teams are ready for warmups. Let them focus on the game, not on when or whether the officials are going to show up.

Be yourself. There’s a famous quote by the writer Oscar Wilde

that goes, “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” When you’re not yourself, you are susceptible to being exposed, which could be a long day in the office if a coach figures this out before the game even starts. Don’t make it harder on yourself when the pressure is on by not being able to focus on what you need to be because you are too busy expending your energy

Although looking the part is half the battle and shouldn’t be overlooked by any means, there are several other ways to make a good first impression that will go a long way in your game-day interactions.

being someone other than yourself. Coaches and players will see through that, and you set yourself up for a tougher time building a rapport when you’re not being your genuine self.

Use your winning smile.

I’m certain the college football officials are familiar with the phrase, “Use your winning words,” from Steve Shaw’s weekly training video sign-

off advice. This is important advice; however, a winning smile may be just as if not more important in certain scenarios. Silence cannot be misquoted, and smiling not only eases the tension of the initial meeting with the head coach, but it also releases stress for you. You need to know if it’s the appropriate moment or personnel when using this tactic; however, it can be an effective way to smooth the potential rough waters right from the get-go.

Be open and confident. Be courteous and attentive when speaking to coaches pregame, and act like you belong there (because you do). Conversations are based on verbal give and take, so any small talk you can engage in without seeming bias can help break the ice quickly. Take the time and have the interest to learn something about a coach or manager … or even player. Being open shows you’re invested in a positive experience on the day, and, most importantly, it shows you’re approachable. That approachability will come in handy during the game when the heat is on.

Be positive. This cannot be stressed enough. A positive attitude radiates outwardly and can go a long way. It emits a contagious energy that makes people feel a little more comfortable to let down their guards and relax a little, which

helps that initial meeting as well. Remaining positive is a useful skill to have when, in a heated moment, a coach or player tests you to the core. Even when the tense interaction may bring you back to the bad day you had at work or home, remember to be the sunshine when the clouds threaten to roll in. You will best be able to keep them at bay that way.

for that day’s game but not overwhelmed, feels empowered to make all the necessary calls and rulings that are his or her responsibility, and knows that you, as the senior member of the crew, are willing and able to answer any questions or assist in any tricky situations that may arise.

his/her calls or to take over the game. It’s to work alongside him/ her to call the game and, in the process, help him/her improve as an umpire.

Although looking the part is half the battle and shouldn’t be overlooked by any means, there are several other ways to make a good first impression that will go a long way in your game-day interactions. You will also feel calmer and more focused on the game in front of you when you make a good first impression from the moment you arrive at the contest. Make it easier on yourself. You already have a difficult job as the villain in stripes/uniform most people love to loathe on game day.

Leah Berard, St. Paul, Minn., officiated international rugby and now officiates high school and college football. 

BASEBALL

Rookie review

The following has been excerpted from Pick a Baseball Pregame: Match It to the Game You’ve Got.

You’ve arrived at the ballpark and discovered your partner is in his/her first year of umpiring high school baseball. At that point, you should recognize that a detailed, all-encompassing pregame is going to be necessary to help set the two of you up for an optimal umpiring experience.

The key facets of a rookie pregame are to make sure the newcomer is prepared

The most important part of the equation for your assignment? Make the newcomer feel comfortable and be a great example.

• Reassure your partner that the two of you are going to have fun, work hard and put yourselves in the best positions to succeed. Establish an air of confidence. Let the rookie know that you are going to find some teaching moments to share in the postgame, but otherwise, that he/she should work the game to the best of his/her ability based on the instruction received thus far in meetings and trainings.

• Remember that when working with a rookie, you need to be a mentor on the field and set an example about how your association or unit expects umpires to conduct their business. That means this particular game is not the time to stray from the rules, mechanics or philosophies by “doing your own thing.”

• Build trust in the rookie by making it clear that you are going to handle your areas of responsibility, and he/she will be allowed to do the same. There are two umpires on the field for a reason, and each has basic responsibilities and rulings for which he/she is responsible. That doesn’t mean you won’t be a good crewmate and assist your partner if he/she seeks help on a call or has a question. But let the newcomer know that your job during the game is not to change

• Don’t forget the postmortem is just as important as the pregame. Always end with words of positivity and encouragement. We were all the rookie at one time, and are still around because more experienced umpires took the time to teach us and help us get better. Return the favor. 

FOOTBALL

On the Same Page

By George Demetriou

Her knowledge of boxing helped Dr. Joyce Brothers win the top prize on the 1950s TV quiz show, The $64,000 Question. One of the questions involved referees.

But it was her work as a psychologist that gave her the most notoriety. One of her many articles was “10 Keys to a Strong Family.” Most of her advice applies to a football crew.

Democracy. The rulebook, official’s manual and coordinators do not leave many things for voting, but there are some. The crew chief should get a consensus on travel arrangements and postgame meals.

The game uniform is another item for balloting. The usual choice is long or short sleeves; some states allow jackets. Many older officials are more susceptible to the cold and that also should be a factor in the decision.

In warmer climes, shorts may be an option. The NFHS allows either blue or white beanbags.

Treat each other well. It’s important to show appreciation to crewmembers, especially on the field. Comments such as “Good call,” or “Great spot” invoke warmth and will be appreciated. If it it’s necessary to point out errors, it should be done kindly. Instead of saying, “You forgot to pinch in,” try, “Pinching in on that type of play will help.”

ways to do things. Supervisor preference and association policy may be limitations.

Pay attention. Understand the other person’s view first, then make your point. A couple of helpful phrases: “I’m not sure what you mean,” and, “Can you say that another way?”

expressions as pure gospel. Unfortunately, those statements are only partially correct. An obstructed runner is only protected in certain instances and if the offense does something “wrong” it loses that protection.

It pays off to be aware of and honor personal sensitivities. Some officials cannot stand any criticism whatsoever, especially in front of others. A few years ago, a referee said to his back judge, “Good job, except you gave the NFL touchback signal on that interception.” The back judge went ballistic.

Enjoy one another. Try to do things together that don’t involve football, perhaps dinner with the spouses or significant others or attending another sporting event. Football events are also OK, but beware of overload. A crew may go watch a game together on an off day or during playoffs. If a crewmember has a child playing a sport, he or she would appreciate crewmates come to watch a game.

Roll with the punches. Flexibility and adaptability are the key words. Until the day they put 22 officials on the field so each official can watch one player, mechanics will always be a series of compromises and playing the percentages. Certain coverage may be better for a pro-style offense than for the single wing and vice versa. Likewise the strength of a kicker’s leg or weather conditions may suggest modifications to the initial position on kickoffs. Good crews recognize it is a changing world and keep their minds open, always looking for better

If members of the crew are comfortable challenging one another, it will reap great benefits during penalty discussions on the field.

Hold weekly meetings. The purpose of the meeting is to assess how you are doing. Give everyone a chance to speak and listen with empathy. It makes sense to review last week’s game. Were there any unusual plays? Any communication breakdowns? How about future games which require an out-oftown trip? Each meeting should end on a positive note.

Periodic meetings during the offseason are a good idea. If crewmembers live far enough apart to make face-to-face meetings impractical, phone conferences are the next best thing. There is a lot of value to keeping in touch.

George Demetriou, Colorado Springs, has been a football official since 1968. 

SOFTBALL

Two Wrongs Don’t Make a Right

By Brad Tittrington

When it comes to obstruction, all umpires at some point in their careers have heard the expression, “The runner can’t be put out because she was obstructed,” or, “She’s always protected between the two bases she was obstructed between.” Some take these

There is a list of exceptions which nullify the protection of the runner when the runner does something illegal or tries to advance farther than she would have gotten had obstruction not occurred. It is important for umpires to understand those exceptions in order to properly rule on situations where the runner or team does something to nullify the obstruction.

All codes agree the following infractions by the runner nullify the obstructed runner’s protection (NFHS 8-4-3b Pen. 1 Exc.; NCAA 9.5.8; USA Softball 8-5B-1 Exc.; USSSA 8-13D):

• An act of interference.

• Passing another runner.

• When properly appealed for missing a base or leaving a base before a fly ball was first touched while advancing.

• The umpire determines the runner was clearly beaten by the throw (NCAA only).

• A runner also loses protection if the obstructed runner obtains a base that would have been awarded had there been no obstruction and there is a subsequent play.

Umpires need to signal a delayed dead ball when the obstruction occurs, but then they must be cognizant of what happens subsequently. Here are some situations which have occurred and can occur, and it is important for umpires to understand how to adjudicate them.

Play 1: With R1 on first base, B2 hits a fly ball to right field, which is caught by F9. R1 attempts to tag up and take

second base but leaves first base before the ball is first touched by F9. While advancing to second base, F4 impedes R1’s progress, but R1 still reaches second base. The defense then properly appeals R1 left first base before the ball was first touched by F9. Ruling 1: In all codes, R1 is ruled out. The umpires should initially rule obstruction on F4 for impeding R1’s progress to second base. However, since R1 did not legally tag up and the defense properly appealed, R1 is ruled out.

she is protected, rounds third and heads for home. Seeing the catcher blocking the plate, R2 maliciously contacts F2 and then steps on the plate. Ruling 4: In all codes, the malicious contact takes precedence over the obstruction and F2 is no longer protected. In favor of player safety, all codes agree this type of play should not be rewarded with a run and the malicious contact by R2 nullifies the obstruction by F6. R2 is ruled out and is also ejected from the game.

coaches and players mistakenly believe obstruction offers them immunity, and this simply is not the case.

Brad Tittrington is an associate editor for Referee. He umpires D-I softball and officiates women’s college and high school basketball, college and high school volleyball and high school football. 

SOCCER

Looking Back

Now, let’s take the previous play and change it up a little. Play 2: R1 forgets how many outs there are and heads toward second on contact. As soon as the ball is caught, R1 realizes there were not two outs and tries to hurry back to first base. On the way back to first base, F4 impedes R1’s progress and F9 fires the ball back to F3 at first base. The ball arrives just before R1 slides back in. Ruling 2: In this case, R1 is protected, as the defense obstructed R1 from returning to properly tag up.

Play 3: With R2 on second base and R3 on third base, B3 hits a ball in the gap, which is ultimately caught by F8. R2, thinking the ball would drop, takes off on contact in hopes of scoring. R2 is obstructed going toward third by F6 and then R2 rounds third and passes R3, who had returned to third base to tag up in case the ball was caught. Ruling 3: In all codes, R2 is ruled out when she passes R3. The obstruction by F6 is nullified, the batter is ruled out on the catch, R2 is ruled out for passing R3 and the ball remains live.

Play 4: With R2 on second, B2 hits a ground ball through the infield into left field. R2, while advancing toward third, is obstructed by F6. R2, thinking

Now let’s take a look at a play that happens quite often because coaches and players, and sometimes umpires, are often confused about the obstruction rule.

Play 5: B1 hits a ball down the line in right field. As B1 rounds first base, she is obstructed by F3, but the contact is minor and B1 continues on to second base. B1 then decides to continue on to third base, thinking she is protected. F9 throws the ball to F4, who then throws the ball to F5. F5 catches the ball when B1 has barely advanced beyond second base and waits for B1 to arrive at third and tags her before she reaches third base. Ruling 5: In all codes, B1 is ruled out. The obstruction by F4 only protects B1 to the base she would have been awarded had there been no obstruction, which would have been second base in this instance. Once B1 reached second base (which is the base the umpires judged she would have attained without obstruction), she is no longer protected to a base beyond that. The out stands.

It is important for umpires to understand the caveat that obstruction doesn’t always mean a runner is protected from being put out. Often,

By Paul Rojas

Assignors often have access to their state’s referee list and built a rapport with other assignors. This keeps them involved in youth soccer since most assignors were or currently are referees. Often times assignors had their share of matches, tournaments, and league championship finals and other officials were envious of them being chosen for those roles. Some feel the assignments were made because the individual was also an assignor and being “taken care of” in lieu of merit with the “good old boy” system being alive and well. This is proven by other assignors who were passed over many times when they thought they had proven themselves, but league administrators thought differently. When any official looks back over the years it is hoped they realize how much they contributed to the advancement of soccer as an official and can only hope they had a positive impact with the athletes and coaching staffs. Let’s face it, someone needs to hold that whistle or flag. It takes a special person who can put many things aside in their personal lives to officiate almost every weekend a match or two,

and in some cases a lot more. It takes a unique personality to deal with players, coaches, and spectators week in and week out without becoming frustrated and giving up.

Some assignors look at the leagues’ referee list and determine who was assigned to a certain match close to home, and ask their assignor if they can drop an email to that crew. When given the green light, the assignor gets a chance to give a tip or two to a referee crew hoping it can make their performance a bit more positive. All soccer officials need to realize coaches, players and families invest many hours of practice to play their best and show their skills once a week and win a few matches. The positive coaching points, the good sportsmanship displayed on the pitch, the team camaraderie and the positive vibes provided as officials during play will help all young players and coaches develop into successful young adults. All of this makes the big picture come into focus.

Older officials no longer get the call to officiate championship matches or popular tournaments and many need to come to grips with this fact. It is not good for the game for officials to try and be at the highest level when they can no longer run as fast or be able to be in the right position to make a good decision. These officials can still give back by officiating the younger players or lower-level matches. Good officials are needed for these games too. The referee can advise the assignor that they are available and at the same time express their limitations to the competitiveness of the assignments. These matches are important to them, their families and coaches. All matches should

be important to the official too. It is most enjoyable to see some of our young players treat their match as if it’s the World Cup. It is the officials’ chance to let players see the officials officiate their match as if they were in a World Cup final.

Many assignors go to matches and like to give tips to referees after observing them in action. Most assignors appreciate a senior referee or assignor providing a small recap on the crew’s performance. If a senior official desires to do this, approach the referee crew in a pleasant manner, introduce themselves and let them know their background in a short and concise manner. This is not the time or place to brag about onesself. Speak merely to establish credibility. Let the crew know how they did and suggest a few tips on how to improve. Do not get into a debate about specific decisions. If the referee crew is not interested in feedback, do not force it. Leave the area and thank them for being there and working the matches. Remember, the senior official is there to help not criticize. There is no paperwork or forms to fill out, just a few referees talking to each other and seeing how each can be a bit more effective. Paul Rojas, Ed.D, Morton Grove, IL., has been a referee for more than 30 years, and is a high level Assessor and Instructor. 

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BASKETBALL

Inadvertent Whistle During Delayed Violation

Play: A1 is holding the ball for the second of two free throws. B5, who is in a marked

lane space, steps into the lane while A1 is still holding the ball. One official correctly extends an arm sideways with a fist indicating a delayed violation. A different official incorrectly blows a whistle for B5’s action. How shall the officials handle this situation? Ruling: When a defensive player in a marked lane space enters the lane before the free throw has been released, the result is a violation, but the officials shall withhold the whistle since the violation is ignored if the free throw is successful. In this scenario, when one official incorrectly blew the whistle, the result is an inadvertent whistle because the official blew the whistle by mistake and does not have a ruling to make. When there is an inadvertent whistle when a team is in control of the ball during a free throw, play shall be resumed by awarding the ball to that team under the original conditions, which would be a free throw to A1 with a delayed violation in effect. The inadvertent whistle does not negate the delayed violation by B5. A1 shall receive a substitute free throw, the officials shall signal the delayed violation signal, and if A1’s freethrow try is unsuccessful, A1 shall receive another try. If A1’s free-throw try is successful, B5’s violation is ignored (NFHS 4-36-1, 4-36-2b, 9-1-3d Pen. 2, 9.1.3C; NCAAM 4-20, 4-28.1.a, 9-1.1.e Pen. b; NCAAW 4-17, 4-23.1.a, 9-1.1.e Pen. b).

BASEBALL

Disappearing Act

Play: B1 hits the ball sharply on the ground and it bounces high in the air. It comes down inside the second

baseman’s shirt. Ruling: The ball is dead immediately. In NFHS, B1 is awarded two bases. In NCAA and pro, B1 is awarded bases at the umpire’s discretion (NFHS 5-1-1f5; 8-33c; NCAA 8-3l; pro MLBUM II-6).

Still Foul

Play: B1 hits a pop fly in the plate area. F2 loses sight of the ball in the sun as B1 takes off for first. The ball hits the bat that is lying in foul territory and then rolls forward into fair ground. Ruling: It is a foul ball and immediately dead because while on or over foul ground, the ball touched an object other than the playing surface (NFHS 2-16-1d; NCAA 2-35d; pro Foul Ball Definition).

Keep the Base

Play: With one out, R1 steals second during the first pitch to B1. The umpire then notices B1’s bat is illegal. Ruling: The ball is immediately dead. The batter is declared out and R1 remains at second. In NFHS, the head coach is also restricted to the dugout (NFHS 4-1-3b, 5-1-1c, 7-4-1a; NCAA 7-10b; pro 6.03a4).

Not Enough Talk

Play: The coach changes pitchers in the third inning. He then remains near the mound and chats with the pitcher as the pitcher warms up. Ruling: Legal in NFHS and pro; the coach may remain on the mound while the pitcher warms up as long as the game is not further delayed. In NCAA, the conference is considered to be concluded when the pitcher starts warming up (NFHS 3-4-3, 3.4.1H; NCAA 9-4d; pro 5.10L).

Fair Catch

FOOTBALL

Play: Fourth and 10 for team K from its own 20 yardline. K1 punts and R2 signals for a fair catch. R3 catches the ball and is immediately tackled by K4. R3 fumbles when hit and the ball is recovered by K4. Ruling: Because a team R player gave a fair-catch signal, the ball became dead when caught by R3. Regardless of when the whistle was blown, R3 fumbled a dead ball and there can be no recovery by team K. Unless the contact by K2 was illegal (e.g. targeting, helmet contact, etc.), it is not a foul because R3 did not signal for a fair catch and is not granted protection (NFHS 6-5-2, 6-5-3; NCAA 6-5-1a, 6-55).

Timeout

Play: In the middle of the first quarter, team A takes a charged team timeout. The team’s offensive coordinator conducts a between the nineyard marks conference. In the second quarter, the same team takes a charged team timeout while on defense. The defensive coordinator has the players come to the sideline for an outside the nine-yard mark conference. Isn’t a team confined to using one or the other type of conference? Ruling: Under NFHS rules, a team may use only one type of conference during a single charged timeout. But a team is not required to employ one or the other type of conference during the entire game (2-6-2, 3-5-8b, 9-8-1f). Under NCAA rules, the official would not allow a coach to enter the field to address the team. The rules do allow any number of players to go to their sideline

to chat with any number of coaches at any point during the game. Coaches may not have onfield conferences in their teams’ huddles (9-2-1b-1).

SOFTBALL

Rundown

Play: With R3 on third and R1 on first and two outs, B5 hits a ground ball to F4. F4 attempts to tag R1, who is running toward second base, but misses her. R1 then gets into a rundown between first and second base. Eventually, R1 is tagged out heading toward second base by F4, but not before R3 crosses home plate. Does the run score? Ruling: This is considered a force out in all codes and R3’s run would not count. Since R1 is forced to go to second base by B5 becoming a batter-runner, if she is put out before reaching second base and is the third out, no runs can score. (NFHS 2-24, 9-1-1 Exc. b; NCAA 6.2.3.1, 12.9.2, 14.1.12; USA Softball 1 – Force Out, 5-5b-1; USSSA 3 –Force Play, 4-2c-1, 8-18m).

Infield Fly

Play: With R2 on second and R1 on first and one out, B4 hits a pop up on the infield near first base. F3 is camped underneath the ball and the umpires declare infield fly. R1, while attempting to return to first base, bumps F3, causing F3 to not be able to catch the ball. Ruling: In all codes, B4 is out on the declaration of the infield fly. R1 is then ruled out for interfering with a fielder in the act of fielding a ball for the third out (NFHS 2-30, 8-610a Pen.; NCAA 11.16 Note 7, 12.17.2.1.5; USA Softball 1 – Infield Fly, 8-7j-1; USSSA 3 –Infield Fly, 8-17h, 8-18g).

Hit and Run

Play: R1, who is on first with one out, breaks for second base on the pitch to B3. B3 hits a long fly ball to left that one-hops the outfield fence. R1 was almost to third base when the ball bounced over the fence and B3 was almost to second base. The offensive coach believes her runners should be at third base and home since they should get two bases. Ruling: In all codes, R1 should be placed at third base and B3 should be placed at second base. All runners receive two bases from the time of the pitch when a batted ball bounces over a fence and goes out of play, regardless of their position when the ball goes out of play (NFHS 8-4-3g Pen.; NCAA 12.12.3.2 Eff., 12.12.8.2; USA Softball 8-5i-1 Eff.; USSSA 8-14c-1).

A1 gets ready for the throwin but delays by signaling teammates where to run. B2 is frustrated and moves toward A1, approximately 1 yard from thrower. A1 throws the ball directly at B2 and strikes B2 in the face. Ruling: A1 is ejected for serious foul play, violent behavior II — NCAA. Since the ball was thrown on to the field by A1, the game is restarted with a direct free kick for team B (NFHS 12-9-2-d1; NCAA 12.7.4.2.2; IFAB 12.3).

Drop Zone

SOCCER

Which Spot?

Play: A1 is on the attack and is tripped by B2. A1 maintains their balance long enough to make a crossing pass in the direction of A3. The referee signals advantage. As the ball is traveling toward A3, it hits B4 in the hands which are in an unnatural position. B4 gains control of the ball. Ruling: The referee stops play and awards a direct free kick for team A for the hand-ball offense. The ball is not brought back since the advantage did not materialize. If the foul was severe enough, B2 could be cautioned (NFHS 12.3.1; NCAA 12.1.7; IFAB 12.1).

Malicious Throw-in

Play: Team A is leading the match, 2-1, late in the second half and is awarded a throwin within its defensive area.

Play: A1 goes to the ground and appears injured. The referee stops play while A2 has possession of the ball. After a quick check by the referee as to the injury, A1 gets up and is ready to play. The referee advises that the game will be started with a drop ball for team A. B3 takes a position five feet from the drop spot. As soon as the ball is dropped and touches the ground, B3 runs up and takes possession of the ball, dribbles down field and scores. Ruling: No goal and the game is restarted with a goal kick. A second player did not touch the ball after the drop ball (NFHS 9-2-6; NCAA 9.3.3; IFAB 8.2).

Distraction Reaction

Play: A1 gains possession of the ball and starts a quick counter-attack. After that, a team A substitute enters the field of play and distracts B2’s attention from play. A1 then scores a goal when the substitute is still on the field of play. Ruling: No goal. The substitute is cautioned and the match is restarted with an indirect or direct free kick for team B at the point where the substitute entered the field and distracted the defender (NFHS 12-9-1a [indirect free

kick]; NCAA 12.4.3.1 [indirect free kick]; IFAB 3.10 [direct free kick]).

VOLLEYBALL

Suspended Match

Play: With the score tied at 10 in the deciding set, the first referee beckons for serve. As S1 goes back to serve, the lights in the facility go out and play is halted. The first referee learns from game administration the lights will not be able to be restored until the following day. The first referee declares the match a tie. Ruling: Incorrect ruling. In all rules codes, matches that are halted due to incidents like a power failure may be suspended. In NFHS, the match may be resumed from the point of suspension unless the state association determines

otherwise. In NCAA, a conference may opt to establish rules to cover situations in which a prolonged interruption prevents a match from being concluded. In USAV, the first referee, the organizer and the Control Committee, if there is one, shall decide the measures to be taken to re-establish normal conditions (NFHS 1-7a; NCAA 11.4.3; USAV 17.3).

indicated on the lineup sheet, not the roster (NFHS 6-4-2a; NCAA 5.2.3.1; USAV 5.1.2).

Injured Libero

Changing Captains

Play: At the beginning of the match, team A’s roster lists A1 as a captain. As the second referee checks team A’s lineups to begin the first set, A1 is listed — but does not have a “c” listed next to the number — and A2 is marked as the captain. The second referee signals to the first referee that A2 is the captain. Ruling: Correct. The playing captain is

Play: Before the beginning of the first set, the head coach for team A designates A1 to be the libero. During a dead ball with the score tied at 20 in the first set, the libero complains to the athletic trainer about a severe headache after bumping the head on the floor while attempting a save during the previous rally. The certified athletic trainer removes the libero for the match. The referees rule team A must finish the first set without a libero. Ruling: Incorrect ruling in all codes. A new libero may be designated in cases of illness or injury to the libero (NFHS 10-4-3a; NCAA 12.3.1.1; USAV 19.4.2.1). 

The National Association of Sports Officials (NASO) is a nonprofit, educational association providing services and benefits for sports officials. It is run by officials, for officials. If you know a good candidate for membership, please send us his or her name and address. We will forward an invitation to join. For more information contact 262-632-5448 or naso.org/membership.

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