Always enjoyed officiating ... almost as much as coaching. 90% of the problem officials (refs, umps, etc..) have with people are the result of poor people skills. You can diffuse so many incidents by having a good rapport with the fans, players and coaches. Then again there are 10% that are just A-holes and nothing you say or do will make a difference. Those are the people that get red-carded, tossed, ejected or if I was feeling really good, I would just embarrass the hell out them and let them sit there, looking like a fool to everyone else. Then I usually got dressed down later for it by whoever was in charge. But is was usually worth it.

I hope your boys find that groove and officiate for the love of the game and the fun interaction with the fans, players and coaches... If they're in it for the money or a power trip, I pity the teams they officiate... Best of luck to them. I hope you get to see them together soon!!