Pity, Pity.

I get very upset with all the endless comments about horrible officiating. What’s even worse is when prominent alumni of good schools that produce persons of good character continue to attack the referees with tasteless remarks. Nothing good comes out of it and it only fans the flames.

The quality of officiating may be arguable, but the character employed in excessively degrading referees is shameful and wholly contrary of the kind of values and character that true sportsmanship has stood for and tried instill in those who love or participate in the sport as an athlete, spectator or team member. 

What really counts is how one learns, grows and responds to whatever outcomes–whether victorious, defeating, humbling or painful–turn out at the end of the buzzer. It’s all part of the game and it’s all about who walks off the arena the better man in winning or losing. 

Don’t play the game if you can’t take what comes with it: the bruises, pains and whatnot. No room at all for sissies, sore losers and spoilsports. Did Michael Jordan ever cite poor officiating as the reason for blots in his career? No. He played with heart in every game. He was the better man.