WEEKLY REPORT - GD8

Dear Colleagues.

Congratulations, well done.

The GD 08 games did not disappoint any of the BCL stakeholders. We had some tight results where the players were fighting for every point, where the coaches were pressurizing us for some decision and where the fans expectations (where allowed) created great atmospheres, but you stayed strong, calm, and assertive. We completed our task, and we met our goals during the heat of the intense Competition.

Data, GD 08, received from BCL Video Observers:

The statistics show us we used the IRS in 1.5 play situations per game. Whilst I will be the first to advocate the use of technology in our modern game, after all we are in the 21st Century, it is vital that we do not use the IRS as a 4th Official, this is not our protocol. We must firstly make the proper decision, and if this is an obvious play situation, we shouldn't use the IRS. By using the IRS for 'obvious play situations' we will look weak and unsure of our calls and the players and coaches will lose trust and confidence in our decisions, so please only use the IRS as a helpful tool in those tough, important decisions.

This week we had 3 situations of IRS usage out of the IRS Protocol. Please be careful. Study again the IRS Protocol, we don't want to give the teams the opportunity to make a complaint over its usage. Below you can find a short reminder just regarding the presentation of final decision:

Reminder:

UF CRITERIA

POINTS FOR IMPROVEMENT

Mechanics

• respect and focus on play control in my primary, my AOR
• reduce/avoid unnecessary DW in obvious play situation

Criteria

• recognition - who is responsible for the contact
• recognition of fake being fouled situations; with our actions as - warning or TF
• reduce/avoid marginal calls.

Reminder:

This week we'll have another 4 groups, and 8 decisive games. I want to just remind you of my previous message from last week

'' For the teams every point will count, for us every decision will count. Your preparation for these games will need to be of the highest standard, your concentration during these games will need to be of the highest standard. As Elite FIBA referees you are prepared, and you have the tools. Now is the time to 'expect the expected', the additional tensions, emotions, and pressure. Everyone losing player and coach will want to use us as their reason 'why'. With strong, decisive performances you will not only be managing the game, but you will be laying a foundation for your place in the next stage of the BCL Competition.''

Something regarding GD 10:

I am sure that you all know the BCL Calendar. Our BCL holiday time will be short with the last games of 2021 being December 21/22 and we start immediately at the start of 2022. We have all endured another very difficult year with COVID and I know you will all need, and want, a break during the holiday season to be with your Family and friends. Before the break, we have important GD 10, with ''all'' decisive games. As all our games recently, I expect these to be decisive games and we will nominate 48 referees from the group of 53 to officiate.

Our first race, the BCL Regular Season, may be concluding but there is still a long way to go, keep yourselves ready for the remainder of the next ''two most important weeks''.                                             

To all of us, I wish you great games in GD 09, our highest possible performances, your 100% effort to provide the best possible service for our customers, BCL teams and fans.

Davorin