Basketball Officials: Pre-Game and Post- Game Responsibilities

The Basketball season is finally here. As always, there is a short supply of good officials. Many individuals don't like to officiate because of all the remarks that the hear coming from the bleachers. Many officials are marked men and women. It is far easier to take out frustrations on one or two striped shirt individuals instead of your own son or daughter or coach. Officials are human beings. They make mistakes during the course of a game. Many times, these mistakes can be avoided with proper preparation before and after a game.

Here are some ideas to help officials. First off, when you schedule to do a game, be sure you have the exact time and date. Write it down. Don't try to remember. The worst thing, an official can do, is forget the game or proper time. Always arrive well before the start of a game. Be sure to have the proper equipment with you including dress. Have a rule and a case book with you. Have at least two whistles that work.

Once you arrive at the gym, check it out. Notice if there are any potential problem areas in the gym. How is the floor? Is it clean? Are the lines well marked? Many small gyms serve as cafeterias for schools. That usually means tables, chairs and milk coolers could be in the way. The court needs to be clear of all things for safe play. If there is an obstacle that can't be moved, make sure there are mats around it to protect the players. Although it is not an officials responsibility, they should also make sure the clock is in working order.

When you get dressed, come back to the court for the pre-game conference no later than ten minutes before tip off. If you need to use a restroom, do it before this time. Take your position on the court. This is usually with one official on each side of the mid court line. After about 30 seconds there, the lead official should report to the scorers bench. After introductions, check the score book and make sure that it is filled out correctly. Count the players on each team and be sure they match up number wise in the official book. Know which book is the official book.