Basketball season is almost upon us, and I can
honestly say that I am a happy camper!
Not only do I enjoy the extra $$, the physical workout and
the comradely with "most" of my fellow officials, but I also enjoy that aspect of the game where I can/should potentially be able to make a difference in someone’s life.
A lot of officials can be heard stating, “Oh, I don’t do
junior high, freshman/JV or CYO games anymore, just strictly varsity games”. To this I say “to each his/her own”, but it’s bigger than that for me.
Yes I have my share of upper level/varsity games
(and I do enjoy the fast paced, more skilled competition and the challenges
that come along with it), but I also make it a point to take my share of the
lower level games, in which the kids usually aren’t as skilled at this
juncture, but it gives the coaches, AND officials a chance to make a positive difference
in possibly getting these young athletes to that upper level one day.
Now only if only some of the parents (that makes these games
miserable for others around them, or worse yet, trying to live vicariously through their
child) would understand that some kids just aren’t skilled enough to ever be a
great player....but that doesn’t mean that child doesn’t enjoy the game, or can’t
help his/her team win by consistently having a positive attitude, giving
everything that they have and accepting their role on the team (limitations and
all).
For those parents that get it, and
attend the games and are positive win or lose….I applaud you! For the others….well let’s just say don’t exhibit
those traits that make you a $5 genius (pay $5 to get in and feel they know
EVERYTHING about EVERYTHING….aka acting a FOOL), because receiving text message
score updates out in the parking lot is not nearly as fun as being INSIDE
watching!! Hit me one time……..(insert whistle sound - C-YA!!)….LOL
Thanks for taking the time to read the rhetoric in which I display my opinions.
