We've batted around captains & penalty enforcement, captains and coin toss, etc. considerably. Here's the framework of my dealings with captains and I will look forward to hearing yours......
I. Pregame meeting w/coaches
A. Get numbers of all captains
B. Get name of speaking captain - remember and use it.
II. Coin toss
A. Have both speaking captains nearest to you.
B. Ask visiting capt. to call before toss- ump listens in.
C. Ask winning capt. : "Do you want to D-E-F-E-R ??"
1. If yes, ask losing capt. : "Do you want T-H-E B-A-L-L?"
2. If no, then ask : "I assume you want the ball." - Usual answer : "AYUH, 'spec so""
D. To captain with choice of ends : "Which way do you want to kickoff?"
III. Penalty Enforcement
A. When choice is obvious; just inform, don't ask (NFHS Manual ,p.49 I- A 5 & 6)
B. Go slow if choice is not obvious, bring captain within earshot of coach for assistance.
C. If double foul w/COP or enforcement with compulated ending, involve both captains.
IV. When the captain can designate spot of ball
A. For a try & OT I'll usually ask : "Captain, where do you want to spot the ball?" This erases the
confusion of spotting in middle and having to move or if asked after RFP.
B. For a TB or after a fair catch, I'll spot in middle unless asked.
C. For a kickoff or after a safety, the kicker will usually make the request.
V. After a score, don't ask if they want to receive. Their coach will loudly announce if they don't.
VI. After a fair catch, don't ask if they wish to free kick, most captains would be clueless on this.
Exception : If there's an accepted live ball foul on 1st play after FC, I would mention that the
free kick option is still available.
In this era of games lasting longer than they used to, I don't feel that we need to prolong them with needless discussions with captains. This also prevents a captain from making a bad decision. Try to address the captain by name. It shows that you respect him, and it turn, he will respect you.
That's my rant of the morning....I'd be interested in hearing your suggestions.
DISCLAIMER : This represents the rants and raves of a grumpy ole' zebra and does not necessarily reflect the views of : NFHS, MPA, MAFO, ASPCA, AFL-CIO, GOP and the like.