What Do You Do When They Act Like A Fool?

In every area of life we encounter people who persist in acting like a fool.  In the officiating world, we can narrow that down to players, coaches, officials, and parents and will usually hit the nail on the head.  Here are some helpful hints when you encounter a fool:

Definition:  Someone who acts without regard to logical thinking and reasoning; a "tool" in modern terminology.

*  Always keep in the mind the definition when dealing with one.

1.  What do you do with a player who acts like a fool?

*  Stay close by so you can observe their aberrant behavior.
*  Use a "loving caution" at first be prepared to issue a code violation--and then do it if you need to.
*  Do not put up with their antics.  Remember that codes are progressive...
*  Do not get drawn into a verbal argument.  That's what they want.
*  If you give a code, give it and then remove yourself from the situation.
*  Be sure to write them up because they keep a "Fool's List" at the Section office.
*  Remember that you are the official and don't let them make you out to be the fool.

2.  What to do with a coach who acts like a fool?

*  Maintain your cool.  Observe their behavior and then determine in your mind what your options are.
*  Deal with them firmly but fairly.
*  Do not raise your voice and maintain eye contact when talking to them.  Nothing offends an irate coach more than an official who ignores them or turns away from them when they are talking.
*  If it continues to escalate, do not hesitate to explain what future codes entail if they are enacted.
*  Report them to the appropriate office if it is a serious confrontation.  Athletic directors respond quickly to a coach acting the fool.
*  Maintain your personal dignity.  Don't scream, pull your hair out, or spit.

3.  What to do with an official who acts like a fool?  (And yes, there are some!)

*  If they are a personal friend, confront them personally but do it in a calm and caring manner.
*  If you have never met them, observe their behavior and if need be, confront them personally.  Do not do it in a group.
*  Report them to the referee--and just hope that the fool isn't the referee.
*  Call their Mother--you would be surprised what an indignant Mother can accomplish.
*  Offer to help them get some counseling or additional training if they are losing control and having difficulty in managing situations.
*  Do not get into a physical or verbal confrontational situation.  Noone wants or likes to see two officials arguing or fighting...

4.  What do to with a parent who acts like a fool?

*  Use cautions liberally and wisely.  Sometimes a soft word will turn away anger.
*  Use codes on their child if they continue to disrupt.
*  Remove them from the facility if needed.
*  Try not to embarrass their child even if their parent is a moron.
*  Deal with them fairly and firmly.  If you see that you can't talk with them successfully, then do what you have to do.
*  Be sure to report them.  Not only do they maintain a "Fool's List", they also have a "Crazy Parents List" at the Section office.

Good luck in your future dealings--you might need it!