BEFORE MY RANT - let me just say to the 100's of "HAWKSDAD" fans (okay, 6 or 7) I met in Columbus this weekend, it was an honor and a privilege to meet each of you and spend some time talking.
I was so happy you each took the time to say hello to me - everyone was so nice! Sincerely - thank you!
_______________


SO, it's official...after the incredible experience we had at OVR Bid this weekend, it's official - and I will be one too, someday soon (an official, if you missed the play on words there).

I can't wait to learn the rules better than I thought I knew them already - because there has to be a better way to interpret double contacts, lifts, etc than I saw at every age level in Columbus. I know you officials out there have a thankless position up there on the stand - so instead of complaining about it further, I'm going to (honestly!) join the ranks. I figure I can make the same calls and more that I'm seeing from the sidelines,
and get PAID to do it.

Obviously it's not ALL of the officials - there are many great officials out there who are very consistent and fair...so I don't mean to use such a broad paint brush.

People always criticize on this website about something, and quite often get "attacked" for voicing an opinion but not taking any steps to fix it. So I'm putting myself in the line of fire soon too...

The benefits look great - so many people wanting to talk to you, even during the games...you have a great view of the entire court area - you can see from one end of the convention center to the other...you get this neat set of playing cards (yellow and red), and you can pull them out sometimes and show them to the coaches on the sidelines who often to yell to see them! The attention you get must be thrilling, too - no wonder you all enjoy what you do so much. Of course, many times only half of the people around the court like what you have to say - the others seem very angry when they don't like it. I hope I can deal with the dislike and bad feelings...do they give classes on that???

I'll see you all soon - but one question - do those shirts come in stripes, like basketball officials wear?

I'm kind of a big guy, and I understand stripes are slimming...

How funny that we were even at the same hotel, OhioVballParent - terrific!

I'll remember "the view from the sidelines" when I start officiating - but I will have to be fair and balanced. Maybe a little leaning towards the Hawksdad fans!

How did your girls finish up?

And by the way - congrats to the CVA 18 Navy team ! Incredible victory! Way to win it all!