New area

[TexOle]

I would like to see a special area where officials could discuss game situations and rule interpretations without people reading them. There are a ton of times where I see something in a game and it would be nice to discuss not only with the other officials in my area, but also in other areas. I also think that this would help to make the games called more consistently in all parts of the country. Just a thought.

[shrekjr]

What do you think, Sonny? Set up an officials forum here, or refer them to the other website?

[tamu33]

I agree with this too. I have consistent problems with older officials here in Texas that do not call games the same way as other officials do around the country. This year we are implementing a new evaluating system so maybe that will help out.

[tlaing1]

I personally like the idea BUT I think there should also be a section where you can get straight answers about rule interpretations. If people can ask why somethjing was called a certain way it might be easier to understand how to not get it next time.

[shrekjr]

I personally like the idea BUT I think there should also be a section where you can get straight answers about rule interpretations. If people can ask why somethjing was called a certain way it might be easier to understand how to not get it next time.

The difficult part about answering interpretations is that you cannot get a common answer to a judgement call. For example, I was asked once to "define" an illegal body check. There are so many things it could be. Kind of like unnecesarry roughness....there is a line where it either is or isn't unnecessary, but defining that line isn't easy. It is done on a case by case basis that is judgement by the official at that time. If you're asking about rules that are specified and defined in the book, those are easy. But you'll probably never be satisfied with comments regarding a judgement call you didn't like the first time.

[Sonny]

I've asked the MDIA National Assigning Authority Bob Duggan if he wants to moderate a new forum where coaches/players/fans can ask referee questions and/or rules interpretations.

If/when he responds, we may try to do this in the future.

[laxfan25]

Ditto me as thinking it's a good idea. I'd be willing to moderate it if you don't get any response from Mr. Duggan. 36 years in the game, 20 as a ref, trained clinician and I have connections to several rules interpreters if additonal help is needed...