January_February_2024_Sportorials

January/February 2024

Volume 75, Number 488

Pregame Conference – The Beginning of Teamwork

My JV game ended rather quickly so I was able to see and talk with two varsity officials in the dressing quarters before their game. I had been talking with Bryan Jones, a well-respected Board 41 varsity official for a few minutes, when his partner, Joe Gaskin entered into the room. After some banter about family, prior games and upcoming tournaments, it was time for the two experienced officials to discuss “The Pregame” conference. Although the start of the game is at the tip-off, the teamwork of officiating a basketball game begins at the pregame conference in the changing room. I was able to listen to these two gentlemen to help understand the importance a great pregame conversation. Officials learn the rudiments of the rules, game management and proper mechanics by establishing good habits with much preparation. The pregame conference is when two or sometimes three officials exchange the knowledge learned from studying the rules, reviewing the IAABO manual and by practicing the proper mechanics. To be an effective communicator of these habits requires each official to not only understand the concepts learned throughout the season, but also; to share information with other officials. Sometimes, memorizing specific rules can become imprinted in the mind so the decisions on the court can become instinctual. The skill of combining the learning skills with proper physical training enables officials to be at their best This is similar to a ball player practicing his or her jump shot, studying the game assignment and developing skills. The individual preparation

only the first year of the program, but in all three years. Mentors for those in the second year of the program review and repeat first year content while concentrating on more advanced concepts. Recognizing infractions, developing sound judgment, being consistent, developing an understanding and “feel” for the game, more advanced positioning concepts, communication techniques and an introduction to three person mechanics. In the final year of the program, third year mentors reinforce first and second year concepts along with the intangibles like communication with coaches and players, game management skills, advanced three person mechanics. Each year mentees are observed three to five times and assigned to work at least three games together with their mentor. Board 173 began their ODP in the 2005-2006 season. According to Mark Halsell, the Program’s First Director and recently retired IAABO member, “We started the program with the intent of our younger (experience wise) officials to make them better high school and college officials.” Since its inception, the program has had over 100 participants with an over 90 percent completion rate. The program is designed to be dynamic and ensuring it implements the most current ideas and methods in basketball officiating. To do that, they utilize board members that officiate at the collegiate level to bring new knowledge to their program. St. Louis Board 173 has been recognized throughout the St. Louis area as the premier basketball These two experienced officials understood the importance of clearly understanding the rules and to be well prepared for any special situation. What made their pregame so fascinating and on point was other nuances of game play and behavior that were discussed. They discussed the importance of getting the call right regardless of the situation and invoked several examples to make his points (continued on page 3) (continued on page 3) enhances their play as they become part of a team. The coach will teach the players in practice, then formulate the method of play for the game. Officials do not have the luxury of being with the same official again and again. We work with different teammates every game. These men in stripes are actually the third team on the floor for every contest. These two officials were about to become a team for the upcoming Locust Valley / Wheatley High school varsity game in Nassau County, New York on Long Island. Each official should have a handle on their PCA or primary coverage area, understand positioning on press situations and have good awareness of how to protect the sidelines. The habits are developed by reviewing the rules and exchanging pointers either before or after a game. We as officials develop a bevy of information that we bring onto the court. If we do not know the basics of free throw procedure, Lead and Trail responsibilities, throw-in situations and timeout duties before we are at our assignment - it becomes time to review the manual a little bit more. The sharing of information at the pregame sets the stage for a well officiated game.

Officiating Excellence – A Guide to Developing Young Officials As we know, IAABO is the premier basketball officials training organization in the world. This not only means IAABO provides the best training on the macro level, but local boards within IAABO also provide exceptional training to their membership using a variety of approaches that work best for them. Board 173 in St. Louis is an example of a local board implementing a training and development program that works best for them and can serve as a model for your local board.

They call it their Officials Development Program (ODP). The program targets first through third year officials and requires a three year commitment from the members that enroll. Each year, participants in the program attend three classroom sessions prior to the season, one on-court training session, a virtual rules clinic and an informal meeting to discuss the year in review with feedback on how the program can be improved. The officials enrolled in the program are assigned a mentor. Mentors are assigned based on their skill level and officials are assigned new mentors each year. The mentors are veteran officials that in the words of board leadership, “Do things right.” They too, are familiar with the ODP as many are graduates of the program. First year mentors spend most of their efforts emphasizing the beginning officiating principles. They address the basics of two-man, basic rule application and study, and live ball/dead ball. The importance of appearance, fitness, effort and professionalism are also stressed in not

IAABO Sportorials

2

Director’s Court

The Tip Off

Looking Back and Looking Forward As the basketball season winds down, some members look forward to another sport that they officiate, others are sad to see the season end and still others are glad it is over. When anything ends in our lives, the results are usually mixed emotions. While these emotions are not the same for everyone, it is important for our future to look back and evaluate the season. When looking back, we should not dwell on the things that did not go well or may have even gone wrong. We should look back at our growth and accomplishments that took place during the season. This exercise is one of introspection and self-evaluation. Looking back at our accomplishments should be coupled with setting new goals for the following season. Although the next season may be months away, assessing what was just experienced is the foundation for goal-setting. Looking backward can be a valuable practice when looking forward. Successful people often evaluate their previous experiences and results. By analyzing what worked and what did not, they gain insights that help them make better choices in the future. Learning from mistakes is a critical part of the improvement process. This retrospective view allows us to make decisions moving forward. Acknowledging accomplishments provides motivation and helps in measuring progress. By looking back, we can see with great clarity the things that appeared as difficulties and now reveal themselves as learning experiences. Looking forward involves planning, procedures, and programs to build on what we have learned in the past. Review what has been accomplished, work on the strategy for the future, and select resolutions and goals for the next season. The months that follow the end of basketball season are typically the busiest months in the IAABO office. The administrative and learning and development teams review the entire year including all publications, programs, and materials that are available for our members. A thorough evaluation is performed, and planning begins for the Fall Seminar. As the world leader in educating, training, developing, and providing continuous instruction to basketball officials, our work is ongoing and year-round. Evaluation and goal-setting are tantamount to this mission. Both perspectives—looking back and looking forward—contribute to our growth and decision-making. So, as we move ahead, let us reflect on the past while embracing the future. It is a terrific way to aspire and progress. Stay Focused, Stay Committed, Stay IAABO

Pregame Conference - Page 1 Officiating Excellence - Page 1 Director’s Court - Page 2 President’s Corner - Page 2 RefQuest - Page 3 Smitty - Page 4 Parkinson’s - Page 5 Gene Schaaf - Page 5 Kirck Family - Page 6 TikTok - Page 7 X - Page 7 Officials vs. Cancer - Page 7 IAABO Benefits - Page 8 Giardin Brothers - Page 10 CBOA Posting - Page 10 Special Olympics - Page 11 IAABO Product Launch - Page 12 Hall High School - Page 13 Rules Guide Love - Page 13 Frontcourt/Backcourt - Page 13 Fox 40 - Page 14 Officials’ School - Page 15 IAABO Lines - Page 16 RefLife - Page 16

Edited by IAABO, Inc. (717) 713-8129 FAX (717) 718–6164 EMAIL info@iaabo.org WEBSITE www.iaabo.org

President’s Corner Can you believe it’s tournament time already? Another regular basketball season has come to an end! I want to give a huge thank you to each and every one of you for your hard work and dedication this season. You all put in a lot of time and effort preparing, traveling, and officiating games. A special shout-out goes to your families for supporting you all season long.

Tournaments are such an exciting time! In our state, every high school team gets to play in sectionals, no matter how they did during the regular season. This means many officials, including less-experienced ones, get to be part of the postseason action! Other state tournaments are already in swing, or about to be. This is a big deal for IAABO because we get to showcase our top officials. Remember to represent IAABO proudly! Our leaders at IAABO are always coming up with new ideas to help us learn and train better. A big thank you to the front office for working hard all year to make IAABO the best it can be. Let’s finish the season strong and healthy! And keep inviting new officials to join us. We need to keep growing our organization. As we look back on the season, let’s also remember the members we lost this year.

Copyright© 1999-2024 International Association of Approved Basketball Officials, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Statement The International Association of Approved Basketball Officials, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of basketball officiating, through the proper training of applicants by visual and written aids; constant supervision by board proctors and dissemination of rule changes and interpretations.

3

January/February 2024 Pregame Conference (continued from page one) clear, citing communication as the key. As an example, on the three point shot, they discussed when the Lead official should help the Trail by conveying the signal for the attempt. They discussed how the angles on certain calls may make it possible for help being needed outside your primary coverage area. Incidents that occurred in prior games that if handled properly might make their game a little easier. They discussed a play in a three-person game in which the other official right near the action could not see the defender reach out and foul before the travel violation. This required a partner to alertly make the right call outside their primary coverage area. They also discussed a situation where both officials missed a brewing fight as they approached the scorer’s table because neither one had a view of the players. Even though the game had been smooth, a small problem had become an incident. These two officials made it a point to not have that type of problem in this game! They committed to always have a view on the players, regardless of the calmness of the action. “Don’t walk away!” was an important point that was emphasized which often gets overlooked. Other key pregame comments discussed besides court coverage were clock management and handling of various foul situations such as block/ charge. They reviewed the pregame meeting with captains and coaches as well as the meeting with the scorers and timers. We want to make sure all players are properly equipped and the scorebook is correct before we start the game. The officials had a brief discussion about the teams involved in the game to share information on styles of play and team tendencies. After more rudimentary talk about new rule changes, positioning and court demeanor, these two fine officials became a team with the guide of their pregame work. Both were ready to work in tandem for four quarters or perhaps an overtime, as well. The opportunity to listen to the top officials communicate for nearly thirty minutes in a pregame was fascinating, enjoyable and enlightening. To be a good official requires terrific habits developed on and off the court. To develop these daily habits requires constant study and review of the IAABO manual, actual practice and the ability to improve our communication skills. The sharing of these habits starts at the pregame to enable officials to handle any situation on the court. Each game becomes a learning point for the next one. Officials should prepare for each game like it’s their most important game of the season. The individual study of the rules and guidelines helps you become a better official. The pregame conference begins the development of the teamwork of officials.

officiating organization. So much so that according to Board Interpreter Larry Krull, “Board 173’s ODP has been so successful, other basketball officiating associations in the St. Louis area have copied it.” In Board President Jason Zytko’s words, who was a graduate of the first ODP class, “If you complete our ODP program, after three years we guarantee that you’ll be further along, have the knowledge, & tools to be a better official than if you tried to do it on your own.” He further adds, “This program helps us retain newer officials by giving them a support system during the early years of their career. We believe in this program and that’s why it’s always changing gets better each year. Mark Halsell stated, “I have now passed the leadership of the program on to Jason Zytko, Justin Ratcliff and Jordan Wilson to allow those who have come up through the program, to continue to grow the ODP and make it better and better each year”. “I believe 110% in this program. We give you all the tools to help you advance you’re career forward as a basketball official. All you must do is put in the work on your part.” are the words of Justin Ratcliff, current board Vice-President and new ODP Director If you want to more information about Board 173’s Officials Development Program, you may contact either Board President Jason Zytko at Jason.Zytko@compass-usa.com or Board Interpreter Larry Krull at larrynellen@charter.net . Officiating Excellence (continued from page one)

David Smith, Bd. 4 CO, is one of four IAABO Co-Coordinators. David is a Past President of IAABO, Inc., as well as a Life Member. He has been an IAABO member since 1981.

Bob Luti is an IABBO Board 41 Official on Long Island, NewYork for many years. He started in 1986 through 1996 taking a break to coach his son‘s basketball team and to be the coordinator for St. Martin CYO basketball program. After this experience, Luti became an official for Board 41 again in 2012 with some new insights to his favorite sport.

If you’re not currently receiving video plays from RQ+, it’s important to reach out to your Board Secretary to address the issue. RQ+ is a valuable membership benefit that can significantly enhance your skills and proficiency as a basketball official. By providing access to video plays for review and analysis, RQ+ offers invaluable learning opportunities that can help you refine your judgment, improve your

understanding of the game, and ultimately become a better official. Don’t hesitate to contact your Board Secretary to ensure that you’re taking full advantage of this beneficial resource. Embracing tools like RQ+ can play a pivotal role in your ongoing development and success as an official.

5

January/February 2024

Refereeing Basketball has Helped Me Keep Parkinson’s on the Sidelines Being on the court has taught me valuable lessons about adaptability

When I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, one of my fears was that I would have to stop refereeing basketball. The game of basketball has been a big part of my life since childhood. Some of my best memories with my dad were with him coaching my youth teams. I’ve loved coaching and watching my kids play basketball through high school. Nine years ago, a buddy convinced me to join him and start officiating high school boys’ basketball. We advanced to men’s college Division III and Division II within a few years. As the diagnosis settled in, I found myself grappling with the reality of Parkinson’s, especially its progressive and unpredictable nature. Questions about the future crowded my mind: Would I be able to continue doing the things I loved? Would my body betray me, forcing me into a sedentary existence? Refereeing was one of those things I loved and the prospect of letting it go was disheartening. It wasn’t just about the game; it was about the camaraderie, the thrill of making split-second decisions, and the joy of contributing to the sport. Parkinson’s threatened to cast a shadow over this passion. With the support of friends and family, I decided to persevere. Little did I know that this decision would become a cornerstone in my early fight against the disease. Refereeing, it turned out, was not just a pastime; it was a lifeline, a source of strength that helped me navigate the challenges that Parkinson’s threw my way. Giving the game my all On the court, the fast-paced nature of basketball demands quick thinking and decisive action. Refereeing forced me to stay sharp, both mentally and physically. Parkinson’s might have slowed my movements, but it couldn’t dampen my spirit. Each game became a personal victory, a testament to my resilience in the face of adversity. Moreover, the basketball community became an unexpected pillar of support. Fellow referees, coaches, and players rallied around me, offering encouragement and understanding. They didn’t treat me with kid gloves; instead, they embraced me as a colleague who happened to be battling Parkinson’s. The sense of belonging, being part of something larger than myself, injected a renewed sense of purpose into my life. Refereeing also became a form of therapy. The rhythmic play-calling and the coordinated crew movements on the court became my way of asserting control over a body that sometimes felt like it had a mind of its own. The timing and attention required in officiating spilled over into my

daily routine, helping me approach the symptoms of Parkinson’s with a determined and open mindset. As I blew the whistle, signaling the start of a game, I was momentarily freed from the constraints of my disease. The court became my sanctuary, a place where I could set aside my worries and focus on the task at hand. In those moments, I wasn’t defined by my diagnosis; my actions on the court defined me. Refereeing also taught me valuable lessons about adaptability. Just as in a basketball game where strategies evolve on the fly, I learned to adapt to the changing landscape of my own health. Some days were tougher than others, but I discovered that persistence and a positive attitude could make a significant difference. In the grand scheme of life, basketball and refereeing may seem trivial. But for me, they have been lifelines, helping me not just live with Parkinson’s, but thrive despite it. With its squeaking sneakers and cheering fans, the court has become a metaphor for my resilience, a testament to the fact that life can still be a thrilling game worth playing, even in the face of adversity. Doc Irish is a “patient research scientist,” not a real doctor. He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at age 49 in 2020. He has an amazing family, is married with four children, owner of a healthcare market research firm. Believed to have eventually developed the disorder due to herbicide exposure while working for a landscaping company in high school and college – initial concerns were all about possible causes and trying to rule out genetic links. Now, focused on how can we try to make sense of brain-body dynamics… and how to accelerate real-world therapies. I’m now 36 months into my Parkinson’s diagnosis and I continue to adapt and evolve. I’m no longer part of the crew running on the court, I’m now part of the table crew, operating the shot clock. Even if the whistle is not in my mouth, as long as I am on the crew in some capacity, Parkinson’s will have to sit on the sidelines. With permission from BioNews, Inc., and Parkinson’s News Today and reports from Doc Irish, https://parkinsonsnewstoday.com/columns/ being-basketball-referee-helped-live-parkinsons-disease/ Refereeing basketball has helped me keep Parkinson’s on the sidelines.

Life Member Gene Schaaf Passes Gene Wesley Schaaf

Passed away peacefully at Lisaard House on February 20, 2024, at the age of 88 years. Beloved husband of Marie for 59 years, father of Robert (Fran), grandfather of Dimitri; father of Paul, grandfather of Jordan. Gene was predeceased by his parents, Leona and Harry, and brother Don. Gene and Marie were married June 27, 1964 and lived in Ajax from 1968-2023. Gene was born March 17, 1935 in Gary, Indiana. In 1940 he moved to Hamilton, ON. He was proud of his education at the Ohio Military Institute in Cincinnati and was a graduate of McMaster and the University of Ottawa. Gene was an educator for 34 years, the last 23 as an elementary principal. A highlight for him was being the inaugural principal of Gandatsetiagon P.S in Pickering, ON. He was actively involved with the Durham Board Athletic Association, Principals Association and Teachers Federation. Gene’s lifelong passion was basketball. He was very involved in the development of basketball in Ontario, as a coach, referee, assignor, interpreter and evaluator. He was honoured to work as a table official during the Montreal Olympics in 1976. For his 50+ years of service, he was recognized as a life member of York Region, Durham Region and Toronto Officials Associations, the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials and Basketball Ontario. Of special importance to him, was his induction as an official, into the Ontario Basketball Hall of Fame and recognition at center court, during a Raptors game in 2019. Gene will always be remembered as a wonderful son, devoted husband, father and grandfather. We hold him dearly in our hearts.

IAABO Sportorials

6

Kirck Family Leaves its Mark on CT Sports Community as Referees, Coaches and Players

HAMDEN —When Steve Kirck was a boys basketball official on New Haven Board 10, he would often bring his two sons, Steve II and Jason, along to his games. Being the son of a referee when spectators sitting in the stands don’t realize he is your dad led to both boys hearing him called just about everything in the book at basketball games. “I have very specific memories of going to games and they don’t know who you are and you are in the bleachers and you can hear what people are saying to the refs,” Jason Kirck said. “It was an interesting experience as a kid hearing people say awful things to my dad.”

“I like to be able to follow in my sisters footsteps,” JJ said. “I like being at practice with Meghan. I just wish I was one year ahead so we could have had practice with all four of us. I enjoy being around my family so much. “It puts some pressure on you (being a Kirck) but I feel like it fuels your fire and makes you want to show more of what you can do to prove that you belong out there and it’s not just because of your name.”

Brendan and Ally Kirck both grew up watching their father Steve II referee just like their grandpa. Steve II started officiating to earn extra money in college and never stopped. He referees approximately 20 college basketball games every season and 15-20 high school boys games. He also got to see Brendan when he was a pitcher at Springfield College and playing for the New Britain Bees in the Futures League. Ally is now a senior outfielder at Lasell University. Steve II is preparing himself for one last season as a sports dad, and said he is not looking forward to it being over. Ally played softball, basketball and volleyball at SHA. Steve Sr. said it is easier to watch Steve II referee than watch Jason coach. Jason said having referees and a coach in the same family leads to some interesting conversations “It gives you a unique perspective,” Jason Kirck said. “When something happens in a game I can call my father or my brother and discuss it. Sometimes the refs are right, sometimes I’m right. There’s been some spirited conversations for sure.” The 2013 CIAC Class L boys basketball championship game at

left to right, JJ, Meghan, Jason and Steve Kirck Sr. (photo courtesy of Scott Ericson/Hearst Connecticut Media).

The experience led Steve II and Jason down different paths, one as an official and one as a coach. But both developed a passion for sports forged through their father and passed down to their own children. “I remember being 7-years old and at a game by myself. He would say ‘Jay, I’ll see you after the game,’” said Jason Kirck, coach of the Sacred Heart Academy girls basketball team. “I developed a love of sports through my family and being around it all the time. That’s a big family thing for us.” Those who have been around sports in Connecticut, and especially New Haven County over the past four decades, are likely familiar with the Kirck family. Steve Kirck Sr., 76, is a longtime college and high school boys basketball and football referee ; Steve II, 54, who is currently a referee on New Haven’s Board 10 and for men’s college games; Jason, 50, is the head coach of the No. 2 ranked girls team in the state, Sacred Heart Academy; Steve II’s kids Brendan and Ally and Jason’s daughters Emma, Meghan and JJ are all local athletes. “It’s really an honor to be a Kirck,” said Meghan Kirck, a senior starting guard for second-ranked SHA. “The Kirck name in sports is very popular in Connecticut. I love being a part of it and I am so lucky I grew up in this family playing sports.” Steve Kirck Sr., a 1964 Notre Dame-West Haven graduate, spent 40 years as a Board 10 high school official in New Haven, refereed college football for 30 years at the FBS and Division I-AA level, and college basketball for 25 years. He is now the assignor for Timing Is Everything, which supplies game clock, shot clock and scoreboard operators at many different collegiate sporting events, like football, soccer, lacrosse and basketball as well as to most CIAC state championships. Timing is Everything provides clock operators for nearly every college in Connecticut, including UConn women’s and men’s basketball. According to Steve Sr., Jason went to his first basketball game when he was 7-days old during Steve Sr.’s brief coaching career at Lady of Victory Middle School in West Haven. The next generation also grew up in gymnasiums with Emma, Meghan and JJ watching Jason coach at Staples, where he was named head coach of the boys team at age 22, then as an assistant at NDWH and, finally, since he took over at SHA six years ago. Meghan is a senior on the SHA basketball team and JJ is a freshman on the volleyball, basketball and lacrosse teams. Emma graduated last year from SHA and is now on the basketball team at Middlebury.

Mohegan Sun Arena between Woodstock Academy and Trinity Catholic was the first state championship assignment for Steve II and the final for Steve Sr. The two found out a few days prior to the Steve Kirck Sr and Steve Kirck II after the 2013 Class L championship game at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville along with Jason, Brendan, Ally, Emma, Meghan and JJ Kirck (photo courtesy of Kris Kirck). (continued next page)

7

January/February 2024

Kirck Family Leaves its Mark on CT Sports Community as Referees, Coaches and Players

game they would be working the final together. “You have to be able to trust the person you are officiating a game with and there is nobody I trust more than my dad,” Steve Kirck II said. “That game was like a fairy tale for me and my dad never put the stripes on again after that game.” Steve Sr. had a knack for going out on a high note. His last college football game was the 2010 Yale Harvard game and his last college basketball game was the ECAC Division III Championship game. Steve II said he never rooted

Steve. Sr. was not aware of how much that gesture meant to the girls until Meghan told him in person recently during an interview at SHA. “I look forward to that text before every game,” Meghan Kirck said, looking over at her grandfather. “He doesn’t know it but getting those texts before every game means the world to me and my sisters.” Like any family with a solid foundation, Steve Sr., Steve II and Jason are all sure to point out that none of what they have been able to do in athletics would be possible without the support, and tolerance, of their wives. Margaret is Steve Sr’s wife, Kris is married to Steve II and Laurie is Jason’s wife. “The heroes of this story aren’t my dad, brother, or myself. We are just trying to do the best we can in our chosen avocations,” Steve Kirck II said. “The true heroes are my mom, my wife and my sister-in-law. “To travel the road we have and reach the level of success we have each been fortunate enough to experience, we needed the sacrifices and support system on the home front. I know I can speak for all three of us when I say they have sacrificed a lot for us to follow our passions and we are extremely grateful for that.” With permission from Hearst Connecticut Media and reports from Scott Ericson , https://www.ctinsider.com/gametimect/article/kirck family-long-history-referees-coaches-18658389.php/ Kirck Family Leaves its Mark on CT Sports Community as Referees, Coaches and Players appropriate photo courtesies.

left to right, Steve Kirck Sr. and Steve Kirck II (photo courtesy of Steve Kirck).

for any outcome in a game he officiated, but when Trinity Catholic took a shot near the buzzer which could have tied the 2013 final, he found himself hoping it would go in so he could spend four more minutes refereeing with his dad. Steve Sr. was quick to remind his son in the locker room that four more minutes would not have mattered. They did their job to the best of their ability and, like all referees, should be happy nobody was talking about them. At that moment there was a knock on the officials locker room door and waiting outside was Jason, who had talked his way through security, with his three girls along with Brendan, Ally and their mom, Kris. Steve Sr. and Steve II went out, hugged their family and posed for a picture both will treasure forever. Last week, Steve II walked into the University of Hartford gymnasium for a game between Hartford and Curry when he saw his father sitting at the scorer’s table running the clock. Neither one knew the other would be there but both were delighted in getting to work together again. In 2022, Steve Sr. said he got to experience just as memorable of a moment when with Jason coaching and Emma and Meghan playing, SHA won the Class MM girls basketball championship on that same Mohegan Sun floor. “It was very special to see two of my grandkids play on that same court in a state championship at Mohegan Sun,” Steve Kirck Sr. said. “My perspective is different as a grandparent. I can say ‘go out there and have a good time and have fun.’” Meghan said she is grateful to have her father as a coach and watching and talking basketball is one of her favorite things to do, even if every game on TV turns into an impromptu film session with her dad. “Dinner table, car rides, anywhere. It’s hard to differentiate between coach and dad at some point,” Meghan Kirck said. “I’m part of the team but also part of his family, but we have a good process. On the court, I am his player but once we get in the car, I am able to speak about practice with him less as coach and player but more as daughter and father.” When Steve Sr. arranges his Timing is Everything schedule each year, he does so around the SHA basketball schedule. “ I have a big calendar, color coded, girls games are pink, my games are blue, doctor’s appointments are yellow. The schedule is for my own sanity,” Steve Kirck Sr. said. “It has been a great experience watching all my grandkids play sports but it’s ending too soon.” And before every game, Steve Sr. send texts to each grandchild with words of encouragement.

IAABO Sportorials

10

Brothers Officiate Basketball Games for the First Time Together

PRESQUE ISLE, Maine (WAGM) -It’s been an exciting week for a pair of brothers who officiate basketball games. Dan Girardin of Presque Isle and his brother Hector who officiates in Kansas are taking the floor together this week reffing games around the County. Here is the story and the process that Hector went through to get IAABO certified. Dan Girardin: ”It’s

this to happen.” (Hector Girardin):” I took an IAABO University course that went through 20 part and then there was a test at the end.” Hector said he also had to pass a floor test by sending video to Maine showing him officiating. The brothers says the rules are the same, but the mechanics are a little different Dan Girardin:” We took extra time to make sure that we were on the same page on mechanics. How things are done . There are some things they do different in Kansas. I wanted ot make sure we both understood those differences and how to work through them.” Hector Girardin:” Court mechanics for officials in Kansas are different than they are here. We do table side mechanics and here they do opposite table. The mechanics for all the game are the same it is just the floor mechanics are a little different. Hector has worked dozens of games over the past 13 year, but he said say he had some butterflies when he first took the court in Maine. Hector Girardin:” I was real excited kind of nervous before the jump ball, but once it got started i was comfortable with what we were doing.” Hector began officiating in Kansas back in 2010 and Dan has been an IAABO official for 37 years. Hector said that as soon has he started working games his goal was to work with his brother Hector Girardin:” I have been looking forward to this since 2010 and I am having a great time.” With permission from WAGM and reports from Rene Clokey, https:// www.wagmtv.com/2024/01/29/brothers-officiate-basketball-games-first time-together/ appropriate photo courtesies. • Provide Association support for the Annual Business Meeting, Banquet, Awards Ceremony and Golf Outing to include contract negotiations with the hotel and banquet facility. • Coordinate annual publications development and area distribution of the CBOA Yearbook. • Serve as the representative/liaison with National (e.g., NCAA, NASO, IAABO) and other basketball officials’ organizations. • Other Duties as assigned by the Board of Directors. Qualifications : • Bachelor’s degree or other relative Work Life Experience • Ability to work with elected & volunteer membership • Excellent written and verbal communications skills • Strong management and budget experience • Negotiation and conflict resolution skills highly desirable • Proficiency with computers for record keeping & communications with membership Stipend • $10,000 per year, non-negotiable, merit raises based on performance Application Process : Applications should include a formal cover letter and resume describing how your education qualifications and/or life experience will enhance the position as described. Applications must be sent electronically to: tomcboa@gmail.com No Later Than - March 8th, 2024, to be considered for this position.

pretty awesome, he started talking about it almost from the time he started doing basketball officiating. Finally it happened this year and it is really special.” It wasn’t as easy as just putting in a request to work together. Maine High Schools referees have to pass an International Association of Approved Basketball Officials course and test while in Kansas, they are approved through the National Federation of High Schools. Dan Girardin:” Hector reached out to TJ Halliday and he put him in touch with Julie and Pedro and they worked through all the logistics for Hector Girardin (left) and his brother, Dan

Collegiate Basketball Officials Association Job Opening Job Title : Executive Director, Collegiate Basketball Officials Association Reports to : Board of Directors Date Prepared : February 13, 2024 Position Summary :

The Executive Director provides leadership, management, direction,and support for the Collegiate Basketball Officials Association (CBOA). He is responsible for the daily operations of

the Association to include finances, recordings of all proceedings at formal meetings; formal reports requested by the Board of Directors. Additionally, he facilitates the needs, issues and concerns raised by the Area Representatives and the general membership. Essential Functions and Responsibilities : • Oversee and provide organizational support for eleven area representatives who have direct responsibilities within thirteen states and the District of Columbia that include CBOA Active members. • Enhance Association sustainability and membership growth through recruitment, training, development, and fund-raisingactivities. • Responsible for the daily financial and operational activities of the Association to include formal banking, accounting and reconciliation of all Association funds, budget development, and financial reports to the membership. • Record all formal Association proceedings/minutes such as the Spring Annual Meeting and other conference calls during the year. • Develop formal reports and provide formal written/electronic communication to the Board of Directors, and the membership.

Executive Director Search Committee Tom O’Connor, Executive Director Collegiate Basketball Officials Association

11

January/February 2024

Board 12 Special Olympics

Board 12 DC Officials along with Donnie Eppley, Director, Membership & Technology, IAABO, Inc. (Larry Levin, Donnie Eppley, Keith Lampel, Marco Rogers, and Bill Dixon, IAABO Life Member)

The initiative undertaken by members of IAABO Board No.12, District of Columbia, to assist special athletes by officiating games at the University of Maryland is truly commendable. This is an event that takes place yearly. The officials volunteer their time and expertise and not only enrich the experiences of the athletes but also demonstrate the power of sports to unite communities and promote inclusion. The collaboration with the University of Maryland Men’s Basketball team to conduct stations and drills for the athletes further enhances the impact of this initiative. It exemplifies the spirit of teamwork and support that lies at the heart of community engagement and sportsmanship.

Officiating Special Olympics events is indeed a wonderful way to give back to the community. It provides officials with an opportunity to contribute to the well-being and happiness of others while fostering a sense of camaraderie and empathy. IAABO applauds the members of IAABO Board No.12 for their dedication to making a difference in the lives of special athletes and for embodying the values of service and compassion. Their involvement in initiatives like this serves as an inspiration to us all and underscores the transformative power of sports in creating a more inclusive and compassionate society.

IAABO Sportorials

12

13

January/February 2024

Frontcourt/Backcourt Status When you read the word “status” in the headline, it’s not about the type of suit you wear, car you drive, position you hold at your business or home you own. We are talking about frontcourt/backcourt status, and some of the tricky situations you might encounter that fluster you while officiating basketball. One happened to me in a varsity girls’ game recently. The offensive team advanced the ball quickly. The ball-handler had the ball and both feet in the frontcourt. She stopped. A teammate jumped from the backcourt and received a pass while in midair from the player in the frontcourt. Quick, what’s your ruling? Reading through that, you probably correctly got the answer and ruled an “over and back” violation. That’s what I did in the game, and the coach of the offensive team decided I was wrong. He quickly chewed on me. I quickly responded while getting ready to put the ball in play, “Frontcourt possession was established by your girl having both feet and the ball in the frontcourt. Your other player left the floor from the backcourt and she received the pass, so her last established position was in the backcourt. Over and back.” That’s the gist of it, anyway. The coach flapped a bit more, wanting to challenge the ruling, while I put the ball in play and moved on. Bang, bang plays like this are tough. You must know the rule. You must understand frontcourt and backcourt status. And, you must make an instantaneous decision correctly. Rule 9, Article 1 states, “A player shall not be the first to touch the ball after it has been in team control in the frontcourt, if the player or a teammate last touched or was touched by the ball in the frontcourt before it went to the backcourt.” Though that’s a bit wordy, in essence it is telling you that a teammate in the backcourt cannot be the first to touch a ball after their team had control of the ball and was the last to touch the ball in the frontcourt. This clearly applied to our example above. Let’s take another situation that occurred in the same game. The offensive team has a throw-in along the endline in the frontcourt. The throw-in pass is launched towards the backcourt and one of their players leaps from the frontcourt, touches the ball, then scrambles to the backcourt to recover it. Violation or not? This is a simple play if you know the rule. No violation. There has been no frontcourt status established. The ball would have to have been caught in the frontcourt by an offensive player with one or both feet on the floor, then muffed into the backcourt, where the offensive team was the first to touch the ball for it to be a backcourt violation. Let’s take one more example to complicate things. Pay close attention. The offensive team is dribbling and 1) crosses the division line and touches the frontcourt with the ball and both feet, 2) crosses the division line and touches the frontcourt with the ball and one foot, while one foot remains on the floor in the backcourt. In each situation the player with the ball throws a flip behind the back pass Pete Maravich-style to their teammate in the backcourt. What do you have? In (1) it is a backcourt violation as frontcourt status was achieved before the ball was returned to a teammate in the backcourt. In (2), it is a legal play because frontcourt status was not obtained (one foot remained on the floor in the backcourt). Remember: status. What’s the status? Has frontcourt status been established? If so, and the ball is sent by the offensive team into the backcourt where a teammate is the first to touch it, then you have a backcourt violation.

Hall High School Girls’ Basketball Team Assists in Fight against Cancer

“Love this Book” – IAABO Rules Guide I read the preface to the “Rules Guide” section of the book and understand that the NFHS publications are the definitive source on the rules. I found the rules presentation with supporting case plays in the handbook very useful. These make for easier reading and quick rules refresher augmenting NFHS publications. The handbook is invaluable as a source for quick review in game preparation. Over the years the IAABO book presented a reprint of the NFHS rules and case book. I find this handbook a significant upgrade of that approach and applaud all who participated in its preparation and publication. I have been officiating high school basketball since 1984. Love this book. Thank you. Ron Brann Member board 255, Cardinal Basketball Officials Association The Hall High School Girls’ Basketball Team from West Hartford, CT, donated $1,500 to the annual Officials’ vs. Cancer campaign. Their donation demonstrates their commitment to making a positive impact beyond the basketball. IAABO Board No. 6, Central Connecticut, presented representatives from the school with an award from the Officials vs. Cancer campaign. This was a meaningful gesture that highlights the importance of community involvement and collaboration in the fight against cancer. It’s inspiring to see athletes and officials come together to support such a worthy cause. Their efforts not only raise awareness about cancer prevention and research but also foster a sense of unity and compassion within the basketball community. Left to right:: Wil Nunez (FR Coach), Moira Honyotski (JV Coach), Rick Bush (Varsity Assistant), Head Coach Ernestine Faienza (with plaque), Central Connecticut Board #6 President Ryan Nowobilski, Central Connecticut Board #6 Officials Versus Cancer Committee Chair Bill McKernan. Good Afternoon, I wanted to comment on the handbook, great!

Dave Simon has been an IAABO member since 1984. He currently resides in Merton, WI, and just finished his fourth year of observing high school officials in southeast Wisconsin.

15

January/February 2024

43rd Year of IAABO Officials’ Schools

This summer, IAABO will be hosting summer officiating schools with the goal of “professional improvement” at Albright College located in Reading, Pennsylvania. Improving as an individual is a must if you want to get better and have success as a basketball official. Over the past ten decades the many and varied continuous education materials and officials’ schools, which IAABO provides, has assisted thousands of new and veteran officials learn and hone their skills. IAABO Schools are designed to provide officials who have a wide variety of ability and experience with the individual attention to meet their specific needs. The focal points of each school are the review of rules, mechanics, signals and professionalism. Each official can expect to receive quality instruction in the classroom and on the court. At IAABO Schools, officials receive instant feedback, including video, which can be incorporated into their officiating immediately.

The Director of the IAABO Officials’ School is Donnie Eppley, Director of Membership & Technology and Division I Basketball Coordinator for the Horizon League. He will be assisted by select IAABO Co-Coordinators. IAABO Officials’ Schools are dedicated to improving the officiating skills of the men and women who enroll. The program will be designed to benefit those who wish to embark upon a career in officiating as well as those who seek refinement of their skills. Classroom sessions will cover all aspects of officiating with lectures, films, workshops and testing. During the afternoon and evening sessions, all officials will officiate games. Those attending the school will be housed in college dormitories and all meals will be held in college dining halls. Each official will receive a certificate denoting completion of the course of study provided by the IAABO Officials’ school. Only National Federation Rules and mechanics will be taught and used.

IAABO Sportorials

16

Condolences to: David Dahlquist , Bd. 54 MA , on the passing of his mother; Joe Gaskin, Bd. 41 NY , on the passing of his mother; Tony Meeks, Bd. 134 MD , on the passing of his father-in-law; Steve Dondarski, Bd. 34 NJ , on the passing of his son; Chris Bell, Bd. 34 NJ , on the passing of his brother; Board 4 Colorado on the passing of our member, Joe Garmatz . IAABO Lines