Does Your Demeanor Really Matter?

We all know that a collegiate tennis team will take on the personality of their coach and children will reflect the personalities of their parents--but does an official's demeanor really matter all that much?  The resounding answer would probably be "yes."

We have all been involved in tense and competitive matches and understand how important the demeanor of officials really is...  If a referee is uptight, tense, and agitated the coaches will usually adopt that same demeanor.  If an official is condescending and uncommunicative, the player will usually respond with anger and contempt.

However we look at it, demeanor is important--but its also really hard to shape, mold, and develop.  Some state associations have even brought in psychologists to help officials develop their on-court demeanor.  Its easy to spot the demeanor of a new official (or an older one for that matter.)  Officials communicate their skill and experience levels by their personalities and the way they carry themselves on a court.  Someone once said, "Its not how high you jump but how far you run when you hit the ground that really matters." That's true in officiating too.  Its not how cool you are or how many rules you can quote that really matters.  Its how you conduct yourself on court and your personal demeanor that really counts.

Here are a few random thoughts about developing a good on-court demeanor:

*  Get enough rest.  A tired official will always be a grumpy official and one who has lots of problems.

*  Learn to relax.  After all, its just a game.

*  Breathe.  A deep breath here and there does wonders for any official.

*  Be friendly and responsive to others.  The coaches and players aren't your enemies.  They just want a fair and balanced official to do their match.

*  Quit trying to emulate Attila the Hun.  There are no prizes for the meanest official on the planet.

*  Learn the rules.  Nothing produces fear in a coach or player like an official who doesn't know the rules.

*  Learn to communicate.  When someone asks you a question don't be afraid to answer.  A non-response will get you in trouble more often than not.

*  Concentrate on your responses.  Some coaches and players think its their calling in life to torment officials. Learn not to respond in kind.

*  Enjoy your life.  You are a part of the greatest game in the world so learn to enjoy what your getting to do.

Remember--your face tells a lot.  Demeanor is a huge part of an effective official.