The crew officiating the Kinnick-Zama game is the best crew we have seen all year. They let the boys play (no quick whistles) and they moved the game along without the long discussions about rule interpretations -- they knew the rules. Athletic Directors: give them a call for all games in the Kanto Plains next year.

Of course it's an 'easy catch'. You start at 1 and count to 11. If you hit 12, there's something wrong. The first responsibility of the Back Judge on every play is to count the number of players the defensive team. Every time; every play.

Since the same thing happened for 8 straight plays where the Yokota defence was on the field, there was obviously a problem. Remember, counting the defensive players is the only responsibility the Back Judge has before the ball is snapped.

And true, ASIJ would have been screaming about it if they had noticed it at the time, but it's not their responsibility; it's the responsibility of the Back Judge. Saying the player was removed once the Yokota coaches 'noticed' is pure conjecture unless you're the coach who noticed it. The only reason he seemed to leave the field is that the Yokota offence took over after ASIJ was forced to punt.

This is different than saying a hold wasn't a hold or clip wasn't a clip after watching a tape. This is a clear example of a ref failing to fulfill his responsibilities. Perhaps he's never been told he is the one counting the players? If so, then it comes down to poor training. Either way, it shouldn't happen.

And "What would be the point of intentionally putting a 12th man on the field?" Hmm, maybe stopping an offence. Think about it.

Good morning.

I just received an email from Dave that mentioned some of the posts regarding this issue. I feel compelled to respond as some people have taken issue with the integrity of the officials and Coach Pujol's coaching staff.

First, I have absolute faith in the professionalism and integrity of the officials we have on a week to week basis. It is very easy to pick apart a game on tape after it's been played. You will always find missed calls. Remember, you have four officials trying to watch 22 players who are in perpetual motion. Of course things are going to be missed once in awhile. And, although there may have been 12 players on the field for more than one play, it's simply an error by the official. It happens. You may be interested in knowing that the officials ask us for game tapes so they can review their calls and try to get better each week.

And, to suggest the officials sway their calls one way or another due to affiliation is ludicrous. They're out there doing their best and, in my opinion, they are above reproach. We always chat before and after the games and the crews we get are simply 'good guys' out on the field with the well-being of all players at the fore.

There isn't a coach in the Kanto league whose integrity I'd even consider questioning. While we, as coaches, get caught up in the excitement of the game, we're educators first and coaches second. We recognize that it's 'just a game' and that teaching fair play and good sportsmanship means a lot more than trying to gain advantage by cheating. So, if you're either insinuating or outright accusing Tim Pujol's coaching staff of doing something unethical, accuse all coaches on all teams as we all share the same philosophy.

Have fun with this blog, but please show a little class and don't throw gasoline on a fire that shouldn't be burning in the first place.

Warren Lavender
ASIJ Offensive Coordinator