|
4. Misconduct
Reports
Misconduct reports sometimes referred
to as incident reports should be sent to proper authorities, even if it’s
not required. Report any ejection, unsportsmanlike conduct or unruly fan
behavior. By sending in a report, you’re accomplishing two important
things: You’re taking the time to write down facts immediately after the
incident and you’re covering your bases by reporting it.
Sometimes officials look at writing
reports as a laborious chore. If the report never gets done, those
officials risk forgetting key information if they’re required to
reconstruct an incident much later. Equally important, those officials
are doing an injustice to other officials. If you don’t identify a coach
in a misconduct report, the proper authorities may not know Coach Smith
is a problem.
For example, let’s say Coach Smith
received two dugout restrictions in two different games, neither of which
was reported by officials. Later in the season, Coach Smith is restricted
a third time. That time, however, the official did his job and reported
it to the proper authorities. The governing body thinks that is Coach
Smith’s first incident, but it is actually his third. The proper
authorities were not able to track Coach Smith’s pattern of poor behavior
because the officials failed to file reports. Those officials hurt
themselves and others.
Game reports. Game reports are often
treated differently from misconduct reports, but are equally important.
In some conferences or leagues, games reports are required from officials
after every contest. Those reports look for patterns of behavior and also
are used to specify player injuries, etc.
Game reports don’t always have to
have a negative tone, either. Many high school state associations are
encouraging officials to note positive experiences and good sportsmanship
and send reports to their offices.
The specifics. There are a few givens
that should appear in each report:
1. Date and time of the
incident.
2. The game site.
3. The names of all the officials involved, plus the
names of the teams and, if possible, the names of the head coaches.
4. Weather conditions.
5. Field conditions.
6. Light conditions.
7. Game situation at time of incident (for example,
the inning).
8. Detailed description of incident or injury,
including if medical attention was given and by whom.
9. If possible, names or numbers of players involved.
10. Additional notes or diagrams if necessary. You may want to
include things that lead up to the incident, if you feel they are related.
Writing strategy. The tone you set in
your report is very important. It speaks to your credibility. Stick to
the facts. Don’t make hyperbolic statements that can’t possibly be
proven; "He approached the player with anger in his eyes and
punched him." Avoid those drastic conclusions and you’ll gain
credibility.
Avoid using vague terms. "The
coach lost total control of himself." What does that mean? It’s too
vague and subject to interpretation and criticism. Only relate what you
observe. Don’t bring up hearsay or past experiences, unless they’re
directly related to the incident.
Don’t speculate. "The player’s actions
are a direct result of the coach’s lack of control." That’s not only a bold statement, but
how does an official know that the coach’s actions lead directly to the
player’s actions? Those are dangerous speculations that usually can’t be
proven.
Avoid recommending courses of action,
like, "The coach should be suspended for his actions." The official’s job is to relate the
facts, not pass judgment. Let the appropriate authorities handle the
punishment. Also, don’t threaten. "If someone doesn’t stop this team
from acting like it does, I’m not going to work any more of its games.
Plus, I’ll spread the word at my local officials association and soon no
one will work." By threatening, you’re credibility dissolves. Keep
in mind that what you’re reporting is likely a bit outside of the norm
during a game. There’s no need to report on every cross word you have
with a coach or player. When in doubt, however, file the report.
Jot down pertinent information as
soon as possible after the game. Coordinate your thoughts with your
partner(s). The incident is fresh; the more you wait the more you’ll
forget. Bring a note pad and pen to each game so you’re ready if you need
it. Tape recorders are also handy tools.
After you’ve written
the report, let it sit for a while and think about something else.
Consider having another respected official read it to provide input.
Then, re-read the letter as if you were the person receiving it. Does it
clearly convey what happened? Is it credible? Does it have the proper
tone? If yes, you’re ready to send it. If not, fix what’s necessary. Keep
a copy of your report. You may be later asked to clarify your statements
or reconstruct the incident. Also, follow up with the governing body. You
have a right to know what action was taken following an incident.
Section IV requires
that a form be completed when any player or coach is ejected because of
misconduct. In addition it is mandatory that you fill out a form
any time you eject a player or coach from a high school game. The
forms are included in the handbook. Complete the forms and
contact the BUA abuse officer as soon as possible.
For games other than
high school, all teams have been notified that the BUA will refuse to
service any team/league where a player, coach, or fan physically abuses
an umpire. Forms for reporting abuse are also included in the
handbook. The forms should be completed and returned for any
abuse or misconduct by players and/or coaches in games you are playing.
-You must report any
incident of physical abuse to the assignor or the vice-president.
-Verbal harassment or
threats should also be reported.
-You must make
reports to protect your fellow officials.
-No official action
can be taken until you file a written report, but please make the phone
call first.
-If you have any
questions concerning umpire abuse, call the BUA Abuse Officer.
|
