Playoff and state tournament time can be full of excitement for officials chosen to work the big games, but there are many others who are upset and disappointed when they find out they weren’t among the elite. Your association may or may not have something to do with the assignment selections. Either way, you need to be ready to deal with the aftermath. It’s important for the emotional highs and lows of playoff time not to create a divide in your association.
1. Make it a group achievement.
Your association should certainly recognize individuals selected to work playoff games at a meeting, on a website or social media. However, when recognizing those officials, also take time to thank all members for their effort during the season. Some members might have even had a direct hand in helping the state officials reach their achievement through training, mentoring or working games with the individuals.
2. Recognize a variety of milestones.
In addition to recognizing achievements of state tournament officials, your association should consider turning the spotlight on other achievements at banquets or association meetings. For example, maybe a 30-year member of your association has never worked the state tournament, but he or she has been a dedicated official for those years. Recognize your officials’ longevity achievements.
3. Talk to the officials who received assignments.
Talk to state officials in your association. Congratulate them for being chosen to work the big game(s). Then talk to them about being sensitive to the individuals who were not selected. That might mean being cognizant about how much they bring up the topic or it might mean not always wearing state gear following an assignment. Don’t ask members to avoid any mention of the achievement; just ask them to be sensitive of fellow members’ feelings.
4. Encourage the officials who didn’t make the cut.
Maybe you know of officials who have been working diligently for years and are close to working a big game, but just didn’t get “the call” this year. Encourage them. You might say, “I know you didn’t get the assignment you were hoping for, but you did a great job this season. Keep it up.” Recognition by an association leader can help an official feel better about officiating.
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