A Better Way

Officials are conditioned, even trained, to handle controversy on the field. At times, however, that controversy may last beyond the end of the game, or worse, spill into our private lives. Worst of all, officials’ private lives may become the fodder for controversy.

Brian Berger urged, "Never pick a fight with someone who buys their ink by the barrel. What does that saying mean? The media will always have the last word. Whether it is a TV broadcaster or a newspaper columnist, they will always have the last word in any battle you may have with them. They have that platform to express their opinion and you don’t unless they decide to give you a platform. That is the power they have. Recognize the powerful opponent you are dealing with and draft your plan accordingly."