40 sec. clock

[Joe Stack]

Do we know whether this is happening this year? If not, when will we?

Man, I hope we go to it.

[TxSkyBolt]

It was reported by our district director last week at our spring meeting that this will begin in 2013. 

[TexDoc]

I cannot see it happening as early as next year.  There are way too many clocks that won't accommodate this and way too many tight budgets.  What I can see happening is we will use the old 25 second clock at those stadiums not yet retrofitted for the 40/25 clock, and use the 40 sec clock when they are available.

[Etref]

If we do that then most will not retro fit the clocks and just stay with the 25.

Make it an option in 2013 and mandatory by 2014.

[texref]

Although discussed there have been no decisions made on the 40/25 second clock. Approval would have to come from the UIL and that hasn't happened yet.

[DallasLJ]

I cannot see it happening as early as next year.  There are way too many clocks that won't accommodate this and way too many tight budgets.  What I can see happening is we will use the old 25 second clock at those stadiums not yet retrofitted for the 40/25 clock, and use the 40 sec clock when they are available.

  I also heard that 2013 is the year.  I asked about cost and was told it is basically a $100 computer chip -- that is the only cost.  So, budget is not an issue.

[JasonTX]

The UIL wanted to make the switch the same year NCAA did.  I assume we would have heard by now if it would go in effect this season, but most likely in 2013.  Schools will either get the clocks to work or we'll be keeping it on the field.  This was based upon the TASO meeting back in February.

[ETXZebra]

The biggest problem I see with the 40 sec. clock will be the clock operators. We've all had clock problems before and now it will be magnified. Too many times they can't seem to start it on the signal. Sure we give clock operators written and verbal instructions in our pre-game, but it stills goes bad at times. It would probably be a good idea for each chapter to have a mandatory clock clinic with the operators.

[TexDoc]

  I also heard that 2013 is the year.  I asked about cost and was told it is basically a $100 computer chip -- that is the only cost.  So, budget is not an issue.

Working in the electronics field for 30 years, I can tell you that $100 is not going to retrofit those clocks.  The chip itself might cost that, but to have a qualified person come out and change the chip is going to cost quite a bit more.  Regardless, even $1000 is not that much is big scheme of things.  But, to say a chip will be all that's needed might work for a brand or two of the clocks, but certainly not all.  I sure hope they find a way because I think it would be a great change and would keep the games moving along.

[ETXZebra]

You're right on Doc. The college stadiums we've been to have double rest buttons. One for 25 & one for 40. Not sure of cost, but I would agree it would be closer to $1000.

[Rulesman]

... Not sure of cost, but I would agree it would be closer to $1000.

Amortized over the course of one season, $1000 is pocket change in most states, even in tight budget times.

[Joe Stack]

The clocks themselves only cost about $2500-3500, depending on what you get and where you get it. $100 may be a little light for overall cost of hardware and service, but double or triple that at the most. In most cases, a school's building engineer who's had some electronics experience could take care of it.

Half of the clocks will just be replaced. We've all been at fields where the clock isn't working properly.

[rsquare]

C'mom all the districts will have to do is just add an advertisers' logo to the field clock or paste another one on the big one
Heck with some of the advertising some isd's put on their buses I wouldn't be surprise if we see advertising on uniforms like golfers etc.
It's show me the money time - at least not for the officals
Hey maybe the UIL's law firm can keep in a campaign to raise funds...