The Ref

Some years ago a friend introduced me to the ‘Third Team’. After some calculation, investigation, medication and dissertation it made sense to me.

The Ref team is always on the field of play (unless sitting in a high chair overlooking the other teams). The Ref team is like the police of the game.

Sometimes called ‘the Zebras’ for their black and white striped shirts, they run up and down the field with the other teams but when they blow a whistle everyone stops. The ball is handed to the Ref team to decide what to do next. The Ref team waves an arm or hand signal and puts the ball back on the ground. No one can start until the whistle is blown again.

The Ref team must also keep order on the field. When the big burley guys start pushing and shoving, all the Ref team has is a whistle. They are not allowed to carry Billy clubs because all the other teams are wearing helmets. Don’t be fouled or fooled, these guys are tough. One misstatement and you are ejected.

After the celebration of a score the ball is handed back to the Ref team before another play can take place. They are also statisticians who keep time and location of all movements and at the end of the game; the Ref team gets the ball.

Who would want to join the Ref team? There are only a few running around without padding or substitutions from the bench. During a time-out the Ref team is still working while the other teams are getting hydration and resting.

Sometimes the Ref team is called, “Bums!” by the spectators for split-second decisions before instant replay and multiple camera angles question the Ref’s eyesight. The network commentators can analyze and criticize the call on the field, but the Third Team always wins.

The Ref is in control. Raising a colored card can send a team into a spiraling lost or a dusty cloud “Safe” can turn the score and the outcome of a national championship battle.

Still it is only a game and though the fans spend their hard earned cash to watch and the players demand millions to play, the Third Team do not get the appreciation that even the cheerleaders get.

At the end of the game as the confetti flies and the close-up interviews happen, the Ref team crawls off into the shadows only to appear at the new venue without a claim to fame.

Root for the Ref Team for they always get the ball.