Quote:
Originally Posted by Ken Streeter
The really complicated issue comes up when you do let the team know that they are breaking the rules, but they aren't doing anything about it. Instead of fixing the problem, they either deny that they are breaking the rule or instead simply let the problem persist. I'm curious to hear what others have to advise about such circumstances...
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Go directly to the Head Ref or LRI as appropriate. By approaching the team first you have given them a chance to correct an accidental violation. Not fixing this issue either means that they do not agree with you that they are in violation or they have chosen to intentionally violate the rules which is cheating. In either case the involvement of an official is the appropriate action.
The rules are there to keep the playing field level and by not informing the appropriate officials about severe violations, you are not only doing a disservice to your team but to others as well. If the issue has been given a pass for whatever reason (eg. the 488 bumpers discussed above) the Head Ref or LRI should know this and be able to inform you and explain.
One thing to keep in mind is be sure that the team is actually in violation of the rule. If you think the conversation is awkward when the team is in violation of the rule it's at least 5 times more awkward for both parties when you're wrong.