MC Delta, perhaps you were confused. When I was talking about the warning/ejection that pertains to a match in progress. Its pretty rare that a coach gets tossed after a match is over. For me I have no problem explaining a call I make to a coach after a match is over if im on a break.

Nigel, I think you misunderstood my last post. I was talking about a break in the action during a match, not after the match is over.

My point is that of course there needs to be a warning/ejection system in place for coaches who are totally out of line (verbally abusive, name calling, etc.) The problem I have is that I don't understand why the rules are such that it is considered unsportsmanlike to simply ask for an explanation of a call during a break in the action (i.e. between periods, etc.). If there has been a mistake made, why not attempt to correct it DURING the match when it might actually make a difference, rather than go through a big mess afterward only to be accused of "whining".

Once again, I don't feel like questioning a call is necessary in most instances, but there are always exceptions. As much as refs don't like to hear it, there ARE rare occasions that the match is decided by the ref because of a poor judgement call. Most of the time, I can live with these calls and go on, but when the poor judgement results in the disqualification of a wrestler or the ejection of a coach, it is extremely frustrating.

I am not perfect and I cannot expect anyone else to be. If I make an err in judgement, I am willing to acknowledge that fact and do whatever it takes to correct the situation. All I am asking for is some accountability on the referee's part for the actions they take.

You are confusing two different penalty sequences, coach misconduct and coach unsportsmanlike conduct. Please see the "Ask The Ref" forum for a detailed explanation of each and how they differ.

Official2-

Thank you for the clarification. I wasn't really distinguishing between the two penalties. From my observations, it just seems like some referees are quick to call "unsportsmanlike" if a coach questions a call, when it could just as easily be considered "misconduct". I guess its all a matter of how "polite" the coach is.

Please don't get me wrong though, I understand that referees have a tough job by nature, and I highly respect those who are fair and equitable. I know that refs aren't all "out to get" anyone, so I will not dwell on the past any longer, and continue to look back to the positive side of things. Thanks again.

Coach misconduct really has nothing to do with how polite a coach is. The intent of the misconduct rule is to penalize a coach for unnecessarily disrupting the flow of the match by going to the scorer's table to discuss a call. Of course, if there is a legitimate problem with the time/score or a rule has been misapplied, the coach should go to the table to resolve the issue. However, the coach should also realize that if there is no change in the call in question after the conference, there should be a coach misconduct penalty assessed. This penalty is very specific and this is the ONLY time coach misconduct should be called by an official.

On the other hand, coach unsportsmanlike conduct has everything to do with demeanor, and can occur at really any time during a competition.

Official2, The rule itself isn't even being questioned. Please reread the entire topic.

Mike Church Sr.

I was merely clarifying some of the issues raised by MC Delta T.

ohh. I understand just didn't want anyone to get bunched up by thinking the same topic was in multible forums. Clarification is always appreciated.

Mike Church Sr.