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Good referees create an enjoyable and safe environment
Good referees increase participation
Good referees reduce complaints and increase customer satisfaction
An article written by ex Australian Opals coach, Tom Maher pointed out, "coaches behave the way they do because they believe they can influence a referee’s decision making processes by continually beseeching and or complaining"
Experienced referees usually understand what a coach is trying to achieve and can generally turn off this distraction, concentrating even harder on the job at hand. Unfortunately, less experienced referees have a tendency to go back into their shell, which can often effect their performance. Rookie referees tend to be more versed in the "letter of the law" rather than the "spirit of the law" and just like players and coaches, under pressure, they revert to what they know best.
Referees must learn to deal with complaining coaches in such a way that it does not effect the flow of the game and their performance, while coaches must realise that their behaviour can often have the opposite effect to what they are wanting to achieve. Referees need to concentrate on the game one hundred percent, and not be distracted by continued verbal harassment.
Basketball is a player’s game – for and about the players, not the coaches, not the referees, nor the fans. Over the years, it seems that our society has grown to believe that abuse of officials in sports is actually acceptable at all levels of competition. Coaches along with referees should have a primary responsibility to be a good role model, in sportsmanship, ethics and values, which hopefully may reverse this disturbing trend.
Coaches need to know and understand what the tactical applications are, the new rule changes; and the referee’s interpretations. Referees need to know how specific teams play and what are the latest styles being taught by coaches.
The better referees and coaches understand and accept each other’s roles, the better
the two parties may cohabitate. The key to their relationship revolves around communication.
Briefly, referees should consider using the following skills in dealing with coaches;
- Approach a coach with a level head and speak to the coach the way you would wish to be spoken to
- Never respond to a complaining, screaming coach by screaming back or being verbally out of control. Remain calm when responding to complaints.
- If you know you have a conflict with a particular coach, recognise that and try to avoid having to deal with him. Have your partner step in to handle any problems.
- Do not follow, or move toward an upset coach. Respect each other’s personal space.
- Never threaten a coach verbally or with aggressive body language e.g. pointing a finger, hands on hips, etc
- Remember and understand that coaches have an obligation to defend their players or their own actions.
- Expect that there will be discussions and possible arguments during a hotly contested game, as the closer the call the more likely that a coach will have something to challenge the official about.
- Learn to respond to a coach not to react to a coach.
- When coaches are losing a discussion they will often interject with additional complaints on different situations. Calmly inform the coach that the only discussion is on the play at hand.
- Be firm, but not overbearing, positive but not rude, dignified but never cocky.
- Remember an official does not have the last word in a discussion with a coach
- Exercise patience and common sense when dealing with an irate coach.
- Attitude is everything. If you go to a game with a good attitude you will probably have a good game.
Basketball is a highly emotive sport, and one that requires a great understanding of what each participant is trying to do. With more understanding and consideration from all parties involved the game will be continue to prosper.
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