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Teenagers learn conviction at junior officials training

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In a Saturday morning class at the Prince George’s Sports and Learning Center, Byron Thompson asks questions of his teenage students. As they answer, they do not use words.
Jeremiah Hall rises, squeaks “toot!” lifts his open hand, and then moves both hands up and down, alternating. At the next question, Jaimia Harley rises, makes a tweeting noise, raises a fist, and with her left hand on her other wrist, pushes outward.
The unconventional classroom answers can be explained by the teenagers’ purpose—they are training to be junior officials so they can referee basketball games for younger children, and practicing hand signals that they will use in a game setting.
Thompson explained to the teens that they would “get rid of all our stage fright in the classroom,” so that on the court, they would have the confidence to make decisive calls. In the class, they would also learn how to spot violations, make quick decisions and communicate effectively with a partner official via hand signals.
“As an official you’re going to have to be the voice of reason out there,” Thompson explained to the teens. “When you blow the whistle, you’re on stage.” By assuming the role of an authority figure, these teens are able to learn a lesson in responsibility as well.
The training culminated with a scrimmage December 10 at the University of Maryland in which the students practiced their new skills. However, the lessons they learn in confidence and authority will be useful both on and off the court.
“Blow the whistle, have some conviction in what you’re doing and make the call,” said Thompson, “half the people are going to love it, half are going to hate it.”