Week 1 of Upward Basketball started today at the local Methodist church, and I referee to help out the in-laws and get exercise. The first week is always the most uncertain, as I never get any exercise or preparation in before then.

This week 1 was rather uneventful compared to last year. Several parents wanted me to discuss calls made by other referees, which irritates me slightly. I wouldn’t want people taking up my calls with other officials.

I did one half-court game and two full-courts, coming away with only a dehydration headache. I was an idiot, drinking Diet Coke instead of water after the 2nd game. There is a time and place for Diet Coke, just not between games. :)

Today I got a pretty funny compliment: “I didn’t know someone could run backwards so fast!” Heh, it happens. Got to move from trail to lead while keeping an eye on the action somehow. I do stick out my hands to make sure I don’t hit walls or chairs.

When it comes to sixth through eighth graders, some referees prefer officiating girls’ games to boys’ games. I usually end up preferring boys’ games, because when girls get frustrated, a referee can’t call fouls fast enough. All boys do is just argue the call. Stick the call with authority, let them shake their head and walk away, and life goes on. :)