10 Commandments of Officiating

Over the years, watching ESPN’s Top 10 Plays of the Day was something to look forward to late at night.  Now, you can even watch the “Not So Top 10.”  It’s amazing to watch how the greatest athletes in the world can make an amazing play and in the next minute, see some of the worst plays.  David Letterman also made his Top 10 list famous with his comical late-night list.  In the Bible, God created the original Top 10--Ten Commandments.   In Exodus 20: 2-17, the Ten Commandments are given by Moses…

1. Thou shall have no other gods before me.
2. Thou shall have no Idols.
3. Thou shall not take the name of the Lord God in vain.
4. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.
5. Honor thy father and mother.
6. Thou shall not kill.
7. Thou shall not commit adultery.
8. Thou shall not steal.
9. Thou shall not bear false witness against thy neighbor—love your neighbor as yourself.
10. Thou shall not covet.

The 10 Commandments in the Bible were God’s instructions on how we should live our lives on earth.  As I thought about these Commandments, I starting thinking—what would be the Ten Commandments of Officiating?  I want to challenge you (and me) to develop your 10 Commandments of Officiating.  As officials, we have great responsibility in our dealings with our crewmates, Supervisors, coaches, administrators, and players.  What are the underlying values/commandments that help us in officiating?