Ref Gets In His Reps

Cudos to the Big Ten Network for putting this clip out there. They need to get their media partners to broadcast it before this weekends games

Why?

Too often the idea of some old guy just showing up and making bad calls is inadvertently communicated to their audience. This clip shows the officials take it serious.

At the pro-level and the high compettion level, criticism of tough calls is expected but when this fan behavior trickles down to the amateur level and grass roots level - with parents and coaches "working the refs" at a 10 yr olds house league - it becomes a problem.

Earlier this summer the NBA had a former player referee a summer league game - which was a great idea - they have 2 former players who are veteran officials who could provide great insight on the different perspectices betwen players and referees in seeing a call.

There is some much more that can be done - like incorporating more ref cams and integrate the footage during the broadcast or simply having player PSAs about the ref shortage  and treatment could go a long way.

Leagues and Media Networks covering said leagues need to do a better job of changing the conversation around officiating and do their part to help fix the issue.