I am a basketball geek. I love the game. Aside from swimming/diving and equestrian, basketball is my game. Our girls play well but our boys are outstanding. They are the defending D-1 champions in our state and were recently ranked #1 in the polls. They play hard and leave it all on the court.
I have a few of the seniors in my unstructured study hall. I’ve enjoyed having them check in with me for sign-in and love the chance to banter with them. Only one of them was ever in my ensemble. Despite that, those seniors never fail to give me smiles, fist-bumps, and hugs. They’re not angels, but they truly represent the good that is in our school community.
Last night’s game was a hard-earned “W” for them. The game was very physical. My vantage point was courtside and across from their bench. When I get into “mom/nana” mode, I cringe every time someone hits the floor or wall pads and worry when I see even the hint of a limp. Sorry, guys…that’s the way I roll. Over the years, I have noticed that some officials converse with the players during the games. I’ve watched them quickly speak to them after fouls, when a player takes the ball out, and at the foul line before shots are taken. I couldn’t hear what was said, but I noticed that the players were frequently “conversational” with the officials. Puzzling…things that made me go, “hmmm.”
Since our auditorium is located right across from our gym, officials have started to use my drama office before the games and during half-time. After last night’s game, I had the opportunity to meet the officials and chat with them a bit. It was during this time that the veil over the “conversations” between officials and players was lifted. The officials told me that they try to explain their calls to the players so that they will become more aware of their actions and not commit the fouls again. It wasn’t enough that they “caught” them doing something “bad.” These officials made the calls into teachable moments. I found myself questioning if I could do more of this in my engagements with students in my classes and around the building.
I didn’t catch the names of last night’s officials, but I would like to thank them and others who practice the same call/teach routine with our student-athletes. I appreciate the fact that they are helping to guide them towards being better versions of themselves. Now, to remember that we can use the same routine in our classrooms, in our hallways, around our campuses, and more…therein lies the challenge.
Have a great weekend.
peace,
Nan
p.s. Go, Saints!
NotesByNan 