Reprinted from
NASO LockerRoom, Vol 2, Nbr 11; November 19, 2001
Anytime you offer advice to a fellow official, you can expect
a wide range of reactions. Sometimes those reactions are emotional – even irrational.
Arguably, there is not a place where more reactionary feelings are emoted than
on the field or court. Because of the intensity of the game, an official’s personal
pride and the stress associated with officiating, properly critiquing fellow
officials on the field or court is a delicate practice.
Pick an appropriate time to offer advice. First,
you’ve got to make a decision: Can your advice/comment wait? Not every situation
needs to be addressed quickly. Store the information in the back of your mind
and talk about it at halftime, after the game, or even after the season. If
it has to be addressed during the game, pick a lull time, like during a timeout
or player injury. When in doubt, save it for later.
Choose words carefully. Confrontational
words bring confrontation. If you think your partner missed a play or rule,
don’t chime in with, "You kicked that one!" The recipient will undoubtedly
react negatively. Rather, gently say, "Remember that play and lets talk about
it later." That’s a much better approach because it doesn’t bring attention
to the error and doesn’t put your partner on the defensive.
[It is strongly urged that you not meet with your partner between innings
right after a controversial call has been made. Wait at least 2 half innings
before meeting or, better yet, after the game.]
Remember perceptions. That’s especially
important when dealing with a younger or newer official. Even during lulls,
people are watching you. If you stand in front of your partner, arms folded
or pointing at him with a strong stance, it looks like you’re lecturing or
talking down to your partner. He will feel that and others will pick up on
it. Even if you’re in your 28th year of officiating and your partner is in
his 28th minute, think about people’s perceptions. Your body language while
talking to your partner will have great impact on whether or not your partner’s
calls are accepted by players, coaches and fans.
Don’t apologize for him. There’s nothing
more belittling than a veteran who talks to coaches about his partner like
he’s fresh out of kindergarten. "Sorry about that, coach. He’s a new guy who’s
just learning." That equates to nails on a chalkboard for that new official.
Confidence is enough of a problem for most new officials; the veteran’s embarrassing
words don’t help. Even if the rookie messed up, few situations warrant an
apology. Don’t make yourself look better at the expense of your young partner.
Remember you were there once too.
Let some mistakes occur. Few situations
need fixing on the spot. If you know your partner is making a rules mistake,
in most cases let it happen, then talk about it later. The "get the play right"
mentality is okay, but don’t compromise the new official’s role on the field
or court. If it has major impact on the game and is in a crucial situation,
you may have to step in. Just remember, making mistakes is part of the learning
process. A specific mistake made and later discussed will not likely happen
again.
MBUA utilizes the Active Member Evaluation Form to assist
the member in improving their skills and gently pointing out areas that
need emphasis to become a better umpire. Constructive critiques with one or
two areas of improvement are more meaningful than 'bashing' the member or
implying they are ready for the 7th game of the World Series.
