Be a Ref...or at least Thank one.

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I'm off to ref a couple more high school basketball games tonight. I've got a girls and boys Varsity doubleheader that actually pays $190 so it's not a bad little check for a few hours of work. But that's not why I do it. I do it because it's fun, and it's necessary for the kids.

How many of you remember playing sports growing up and also remember how bad it was when the officiating was poor? I know I do. It seemed like you put in all the time and effort and then some bozo in stripes who never got off the bench in high school made arbitrary decisions that took away all your hard work. That is mostly why I do this.

Having played the game, I understand what the players are going through and the subtle little things they're doing that may or may not be legal. The little bumps, holds, grabbing of jerseys, etc., that they try to get away with to gain an advantage. You can't call them all, obviously, but if you call a couple early in the game, most of it goes away for the rest of the game. And then when you do have to call it later when the game is in the balance, at least you can point back to those early ones and stay consistent.

Reffing is not easy. You basically have half the people mad at you for one call, and the other half mad at your next one. You can't win. Your best-case scenario is to remain unnoticed as much as possible. But, there are a lot of people who appreciate it and understand that the games can't be played without refs.

If you ever played the game, I strongly encourage you to look into being an official. Here are few reasons why:

• The kids need it. Never underestimate your importance to the game. You are an impartial observer. I couldn't care less who wins the games I ref. I'm just trying to work hard to be in the right spots so I can make the calls that need to be made. My judgement can be criticized (and it will be), but if I'm where I should be, most times I'll have a better view of the play than anyone but the players themselves.
• It's fun. There's nothing like being back in that high school gym atmosphere. The bands, the kids, the cheerleaders, the students...it's fun. And you're right in the middle of it.
• You meet some great people. I know doctors, lawyers, judges, business owners, etc, etc, who all ref. When the game is over, you go out and tell war stories with your crew and meet up with a few others. Lots of networking and camaraderie to be had.
• You make a little money. It is a little money, don't get me wrong. Unless you start doing high-level college or pro, there are probably other things you could do with your time that would make you more money. But for me, instead of sitting around at home on a Friday night or going out and spending money, I actually make a little something and then can have a cocktail or two after. Win/win.
• You get some exercise. It's not easy chasing 15-18 yr old kids up and down a floor. Boys or girls, they're both in much better shape than I am and have boundless energy. So, getting a little run in for a couple hours certainly doesn't hurt.
• You have the best seat in the house. You are right in the middle of all the action and you get to see some incredibly talented players in action, up close and personal. I've reffed almost a dozen future pros in my 30 years of doing this, and it's amazing seeing these kids perform.

So, in conclusion, if any of those reasons above appeal to you, I highly encourage you to look into getting involved. Officials are in short supply and are desparately needed at every level. Kids, middle school, high school, and even college.

If it's not for you, at least realize that good or bad, refs are out there trying to do the best job they can. As with anything in life, some are better than others, but I have yet to meet one that purposely made mistakes.

So, be a ref, or if not, at least thank one. It's much appreciated.

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