Problems with referees?!

[Jack Jones]

Originally Posted by LauraN

I feel awkward even bringing this up, but I think it's important...so don't shoot the messanger, please.

I'm just a FIRST rookie, but considering how enthusiastic most FIRST teams are, I feel that I have a pretty good idea about FIRST. I'm sure everyone would agree that the atmoshpere that you feel at a regional event is completely amazing- there's trust and respect all around and there are amazing volunteers who just want to see high school students play with robots. =)

Which is why, even though I'm just a rookie, I can't BELIEVE I'm having to tell you this...but...

We actually had a problem with a referee being a whole slew of negative adjectives (impolite, confrontational, disrespectful) to our team.

We're trying to contact someone about the problem we encountered and were wondering if anyone on Delphi knew who would be best to talk to. PM me with suggestions. (How can I find contact info for regional event directors? Who's in charge of the refs? Who do you think would be the best person to contact? Stuff like that.)

Has anyone else had problems like this? I thought it was completely unheard of, and our whole team is really upset about it.

My advice is to let it go! Most every FIRST volunteer is a rookie too, and are doing their level best.

We are rookies also. I cringe whenever one of mine sucumbs to the pressure and acts out of character; but I understand how that could happen. I advise you to do the same.

[Rob]

We just got done competing at the UTC regional in Hartford, and I ca't say enough wonderful things about the refs there. Aidan and his crew were very professional and very clear on all calls. They even had the field announcer show what every penalty was for and ask the crowd to pay attention in order to avoid these penalties in the future.

Do remember that many refs have to deal with teams asking all sorts of questions. When a team is penalized for something, they often approcah the refs in a very energized and emotional state. Refs are often put on the defensive in these situations. After a long day of confrontations, the refs might get a bit snappy, it is only human. I think the best way to get along with the refs is to obey the rules to your best ability. When a penalty is handed out, please try to approach the refs in a calm way, they are very kowlegable of the rules, and very clear about what happened when you give them a chance to properly explain the situation.

Best of luck to everyone, and have a great time!

Rob