January_February_2024_Sportorials

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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.