According to KING 5 news a group of football officials in Washington were trying to support breast cancer research while working this week's games, so they made a pledge to donate all game checks to the Susan G Komen Foundation. Then, to top off the charitable gesture, they announced they would all use pink whistles during the games. Now, there's a chance those whistles could cost the refs a chance to work state playoff games and a fine accessed.
Okay, I am all for following the rules but couldn't the referees be warned instead of missing a playoff game and fined? Come on, these guys were doing a selfless act and the punishment I think is very harsh.
Being that my husband referees volleyball and basketball I really took this attack personally.These men and women take abuse from the crowds and really work hard out on the court. In the article it stated that "It sends the wrong message to the kids that are playing the game. If they broke the rules why can't I do the same." Okay, first of all how is being charitable sending the wrong message and how many people actually know the "rules"? It is so unfair that these refs would be losing an equivalent to three checks that they would have normally earned by doing the games? Do you really think they are going to be charitable in the future? I think they should be reprimanded but not have any money taken away from them. Isn't that going back on the contract that they had with them? Do they not have to be paid for services rendered?
Shame on the WOA: what was supposed to be a supportive, charitable gesture that was intended to help in the research and cure of cancer has turned to a disciplinary situation. I hope these referees don't let this event deter them from being charitable in the future.
I think this is stupid theses refs where doing something good. I at least think that the punishment should not be as harsh as it is. The men where only supporting a good cause.
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