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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (10/31/23)

"Promoting Education Based Athletics in Indiana"

Almost every time I leave a sporting event, you can hear the losing crowd complain about the officiating.  Things like, "the ref cost us the game," "those refs were terrible," or "that one call was the worst I've ever seen."

It was certainly the case this past Sunday, as I was leaving the Indianapolis Colts game after a tough loss.  All those sentiments about the refs reverberated throughout Lucas Oil Stadium.

Later that night, I heard Colts coach Shane Steichen on the evening news, and he handled the situation with class and dignity.

Coach Steichen said that he and the team should never put the game in the hands of the officials in the final minutes.  His point is that every play matters, even though we often dwell on those at the end of the game or match.         

Once the game is over, nothing can be done to change the outcome.  Steichen's attitude here is important and a great lesson for every student-athlete.  Play with intensity from the start, and work hard at all times so that no last minute call by a referee or official can affect the outcome. Every play is important!                        

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