[JaneYoung]

I think one reason you aren't seeing a lot of discussion is because you are talking about IRI. When you talk about IRI, you are not only discussing the caliber of the referees but you are also discussing the caliber of the members of the planning committee and the emcees who will be running the show. (I can't help but giggle when I think about a certain emcee who has no problem letting folks know when they are messing with the rules and jeopardizing the fair play of the game.)

There are many people who are proud of, and protective of, the reputation of IRI. It has been built on years of hard work, achievement, and the pursuit of excellence. If that reputation is threatened, all of those people who are proud and protective of it - could potentially come down hard on those threatening it. I'm one of those people who is very proud because I know that the folks who are running, and helping to run the event, will do their very best to make sure the teams can play the game to their very best ability and the game will be played the best that it can be. They want to make sure everyone has a great time and they are very aware of the prestige that goes with participating in the event. They aren't going to mess with it.

You can discuss this but I don't see it as a big problem. If it is, I will be very surprised.

Jane