“YOU SHOULD KNOW…”

We were in a tight game, and a few calls had already gone against us. Frustration was building, & I couldn’t help myself. I yelled out to the white hat, who had officiated games a few times over the years but I didn’t know well.

"Can we get a call? Lord have mercy; this is poor officiating! I don't know exactly what you're getting paid tonight, but it's too much!"

He responded without missing a beat or getting upset: "You should know!"

You should know?? Did he just say that to me??

I just stood there, taking it all in. The quickness & cleverness of his response left me momentarily speechless. As I processed what he said, I began to chuckle, amazed at how well he had caught me off guard.

I was so impressed w/ his response that I turned to the side judge & said, "Please tell Nat that’s the greatest comeback I’ve ever received from an official—& now I want to be his friend."

And that’s exactly what happened. After the game, I made a point to talk to Nat, and from that day on, we became friends. I hope this story makes you chuckle as well - thanks H.S. officials for keeping everything in perspective when we forget.

THANK YOU Nat Maxson of Dallas Football Officials Association & all HIGH SCHOOL OFFICIALS!