The Crown Refs Podcast

Paul Diasparra
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Jan 30, 2024 • 32min

#358 Rapid Responses 13 | 3 Zebras Camp | Classroom Q & A

In this 13th installment of "Rapid Responses," we focused on the importance of establishing clear pre-game discussions with coaches (if your state allows), managing in-game interactions professionally, and the critical role of effective communication in defusing potential conflicts. The session highlighted how referees should approach conversations with coaches, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and professional dialogue. The idea of using questions to guide these interactions and the strategy of admitting mistakes when necessary were also discussed.⁣ ⁣ The conversation then shifted to broader issues like the role of athletic associations and schools in promoting good sportsmanship and effective communication. There was a suggestion to involve state-level basketball coaches' associations more actively in this effort. This led to discussions about the impact of pre-game announcements on sportsmanship, the potential benefits of having student athletes deliver these messages, and the need for athletic directors to take a proactive approach in addressing spectator behavior. ⁣ ⁣ We also explored how new technologies like video boards could be used to enhance the delivery of sportsmanship messages in schools. The podcast stressed the importance of not just relying on athletic directors to manage games but also on referees taking an active role in ensuring a positive and respectful environment during basketball games.⁣ ⁣ ❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣ Patreon.com/crownrefs⁣ ⁣ 🎶 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗶𝗸 𝗧𝗼𝗸⁣ https://www.tiktok.com/@crownrefs?_t=8cv8RyeL7ve&_r=1⁣ ⁣ 📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚⁣ https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==⁣ ⁣ 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲⁣ https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs⁣
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Jan 21, 2024 • 18min

#357 Fouls & Trolls Vol. 4 | feat. Marc Vacarro

We are happy to bring you Volume 4 of "Fouls and Trolls," hosted by Paul and his cousin Marc Vacarro. The episode highlights the importance of patience and kindness, even when confronted with challenging situations or negative feedback. We hope you notice our friendly banter and focus on setting a positive and humorous tone.⁣ ⁣ As we glide into the comments we address some negative feedback from our TikTok & Instagram audience, ranging from constructive critiques to outright trolling. We navigate these with humor and wisdom, emphasizing the need for officials to remain composed and effective in their roles. The episode also touches on the modern challenges of officiating in a world where respect for referees seems to be dwindling.⁣ ⁣ Paul shares a personal story about getting scammed, using it as an example of staying positive and not beating yourself up over mistakes. In addition, we touch on the concept of 'rabbit ears' in officiating and the necessity of adapting to change in the current sports environment. We hope you enjoy this engaging conversation and practical advice.⁣ ⁣ ❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣ Patreon.com/crownrefs⁣ ⁣ 🎶 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗶𝗸 𝗧𝗼𝗸⁣ https://www.tiktok.com/@crownrefs?_t=8cv8RyeL7ve&_r=1⁣ ⁣ 📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚⁣ https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==⁣ ⁣ 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲⁣ https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs⁣
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Jan 10, 2024 • 20min

#356 Fouls & Trolls Vol. 3 | feat. Marc Vacarro | @vfmovement

Welcome back to the 3rd installment of one of our newest series "Fouls & Trolls," with co-host Marc Vaccaro. We jump into into viewer comments, revealing a wide range of opinions and misconceptions about  officiating. We address each comment with a mix of humor and insight, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting the rules and the referees' decisions.⁣ ⁣ We also touch upon the emotional aspects of sports, both from the perspective of the players and the spectators. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the need for positive attitudes and constructive criticism in sports, aiming to foster a better understanding of the challenges and responsibilities of sports officials.⁣ ⁣ ❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣ Patreon.com/crownrefs⁣ ⁣ 🎶 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗶𝗸 𝗧𝗼𝗸⁣ https://www.tiktok.com/@crownrefs?_t=8cv8RyeL7ve&_r=1⁣ ⁣ 📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚⁣ https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==⁣ ⁣ 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲⁣ https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs⁣
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Jan 6, 2024 • 2h 14min

#355 The Best of 2023 Mix | Thank you for 5 years of this Podcast!

Welcome to the special “Best of 2023” edition of the Crown Refs Podcast, celebrating five incredible years of the audio experience dedicated to basketball officials. This episode is a heartfelt thank you to the officiating community whose unwavering support has been the cornerstone of our journey. As we reflect on our achievements and the impact we’ve made, we’re excited to share highlights and memorable moments from the past year.⁣ ⁣ As we look forward to the future, we are energized to continue our mission of training, developing, mentoring, and connecting officials across the US and beyond. This episode is not just a celebration of our past but a stepping stone to a future filled with possibilities and the potential to positively impact even more lives.⁣ ⁣ A heartfelt appreciation goes out to my family who make this possible by filling my heart with love every day.⁣ ⁣ So, tune in, enjoy the episode, and remember to have a spectacular 2024!⁣ ⁣ ❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣ Patreon.com/crownrefs⁣ ⁣ 📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚⁣ https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==⁣ ⁣ 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲⁣ https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs⁣
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Jan 3, 2024 • 41min

#354 Coaching in Qatar | Episode 8 | Coffeeshop Conversations

⁣In the series finale of “Coaching in Qatar,” Saif Aldossari, the director of the Doha Referees Camp and a pivotal figure behind the Qatar journey, joins me at a Harlem coffee shop during his visit to New York City in November 2023.⁣ ⁣ The episode begins with a heartfelt recap of the Doha Referees Camp, reflecting on the impactful moments and lessons learned. Saif shares his vision for the camp’s future, hinting at exciting additions planned for the upcoming year. We also learn more about Saif’s remarkable journey from a player on the Qatar National U-18 team to a FIBA-certified official. ⁣ ⁣ The episode also stamps the importance of partnership and camaraderie within the officiating community, highlighting the value of being the bigger person in all situations. We conclude with a message of unity, growth, and shared passion for the game. ⁣ ⁣ Thanks for listening to this series❤️⁣ ⁣ ❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣ Patreon.com/crownrefs⁣ ⁣ 📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚⁣ https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==⁣ ⁣ 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲⁣ https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs⁣
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Jan 2, 2024 • 43min

#353 Coaching in Qatar | Episode 7 | FIBA Signal School

In the seventh episode of "Coaching in Qatar," titled "FIBA Signal School," recorded at the Doha International Referee Camp in conjunction with the Qatar Basketball Federation, this episode emphasizes the importance of precision and clarity in hand signals for FIBA officiating. We walk you through various signals such as "stop the clock," "three-point attempt," "traveling," and "hand check," demonstrating each with clear instructions. We highlight the need for officials to be ambidextrous in their signaling and stresses the significance of arm positioning, movement, and posture. The session is interactive, offering personalized feedback to participants to refine their technique, ensuring signals contribute to their credibility and authority on the court.⁣ ⁣ Key takeaways from the episode include the critical role of visual communication in officiating and the impact of well-executed signals on game management and an official’s perceived professionalism. We advise you to practice in front of a mirror or record yourself to evaluate and improve. The detailed breakdown of each signal, combined with the host’s hands-on coaching approach, makes this episode an invaluable resource for basketball officials at all FIBA levels. This session encapsulates the series' overarching theme of striving for excellence in basketball officiating, offering both foundational knowledge and advanced insights for referees dedicated to enhancing their skills.⁣ ⁣ ❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣ Patreon.com/crownrefs⁣ ⁣ 📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚⁣ https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==⁣ ⁣ 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲⁣ https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs⁣
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Jan 1, 2024 • 4min

#352 Coaching in Qatar | Episode 6 | 3 mins on Emotional Control

In the latest installment of the "Coaching in Qatar" series, we jump into the pivotal role of emotional control as this episode features a candid one-on-one conversation with a Saudi Arabian official at the Doha International Referee Camp, addressing the intense pressure, scrutiny, and the barrage of challenges officials face. The core message focuses on the mental fortitude required off the court, advocating for consistent expressions of gratitude, deep-seated humility, and the cultivation of a positive daily outlook as foundational elements for mental strength.⁣ ⁣ This installment emphasizes the need to solidify one's emotional and mental base—rebuilding the "foundations" before attempting to fix the superficial aspects, metaphorically referred to as the "kitchen sink." The guidance provided seeks to bolster the official's resilience and performance, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle the inherent stresses of their role with poise and confidence. The episode serves as a valuable resource, not just for the official in question but for all referees aiming to enhance their mental game and serve the sport with excellence.⁣ ⁣ ❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣ Patreon.com/crownrefs⁣ ⁣ 📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚⁣ https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==⁣ ⁣ 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲⁣ https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs⁣
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Dec 31, 2023 • 13min

#351 Coaching in Qatar | Episode 5 | Managing ANY type of Coach

Welcome back to the 5th installment of "Coaching in Qatar" series, as this episode zeroes in on the art of communication for basketball officials, presenting the 'Rapid Responses' system to enhance dialogue with coaches. A significant takeaway is the differentiation between responding to genuine inquiries about plays and deflecting mere questioning of an official's judgment. The episode advocates for officials to approach player interactions as an opportunity to educate and clarify rather than just enforce, promoting an environment where players view referees as approachable and informative. The importance of proactive officiating is highlighted, guiding players with verbal cues to preempt potential infractions and maintain the flow of the game.⁣ ⁣ The discussion also delves into the nuances of managing coaches, emphasizing the necessity of establishing a professional yet assertive presence. Officials are encouraged to use discretion in conversations, opting for factual, rule-based dialogue over emotional exchanges. Techniques such as employing the 'three voices' strategy—authority, normal, and diffusing—are recommended for different in-game scenarios, allowing officials to assert control, offer clarity, and deescalate tensions effectively. Ultimately, the episode reinforces the concept that referees must navigate the game with confidence and impartiality, always serving the game with the utmost respect for its integrity.⁣ ⁣ ❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣ Patreon.com/crownrefs⁣ ⁣ 📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚⁣ https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==⁣ ⁣ 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲⁣ https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs⁣
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Dec 30, 2023 • 35min

#350 Coaching in Qatar | Episode 4 | A Universal Approach to Referee Communication

Welcome back to the 4th installment of "Coaching in Qatar," as this episode delivers essential strategies for effective communication between basketball officials and players, as well as insightful methods for managing interactions with coaches. The key takeaways emphasize the importance of being approachable to players, guiding them on rules they may not fully understand, and using proactive officiating to prevent 'game interrupters' – those unnecessary stoppages that disrupt the flow of the game. Officials are encouraged to use their voice strategically to deescalate tensions, employing techniques such as repeating calming words and offering explanations that players can understand.⁣ ⁣ The episode also tackles the often challenging communication with coaches, advocating for a firm yet respectful dialogue. It introduces the concept of 'Rapid Responses,' a Crown Refs training series designed to equip officials with the tools to handle even the most difficult coaching personalities confidently. Key advice includes establishing a professional relationship, avoiding judgment based on past interactions, and recognizing the difference between a coach genuinely seeking to understand a call and one merely questioning the official’s judgment. Officials are advised to maintain strong eye contact, use the three voices (authority, normal, diffusing), and understand when to play 'offense' in conversations, asserting the need to stand firm against unsporting behavior. The episode concludes with the recommendation to avoid over-explaining technical fouls to coaches, emphasizing that grown adults should recognize their misbehavior without the need for extensive justification. Ultimately, Episode 4 of "Coaching in Qatar" empowers officials to serve the game with confidence, clarity, and control.⁣ ⁣ ❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣ Patreon.com/crownrefs⁣ ⁣ 📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚⁣ https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==⁣ ⁣ 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲⁣ https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs⁣
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Dec 29, 2023 • 27min

#349 Coaching in Qatar | Episode 3 | Positive Partnering

In the third installment of the "Coaching in Qatar" series, the focus shifts to fostering a supportive partnership among officials and mastering the craft of communication on the court. Crown Refs delivers insights on becoming the kind of official that elevates the game and the experience for everyone involved. The episode emphasizes the significance of bringing positivity, respect, and kindness to every game, shaping an official into someone their peers are excited to collaborate with. These super traits are foundational for effective teamwork, irrespective of others’ attitudes or behaviors.. "We want to aspire to be a source of excitement on the schedule for their colleagues."⁣ ⁣ Our message is clear: officiating is more than just managing the game; it's about building rapport and trust. Through self-reflection and positive affirmation, officials can improve their in-game performance and decision-making. This episode also guides listeners on how to communicate effectively with their partners, stressing the value of personal connections, accountability, and a collective approach to managing games. With practical tips on navigating interactions with coaches and players, we equip you with the necessary tools to handle every call with confidence. Remember to enjoy the process, to inject humor and light-heartedness where appropriate, ensuring that every game is not just a professional endeavor but a genuinely enjoyable experience.⁣ ⁣ ❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣ Patreon.com/crownrefs⁣ ⁣ 📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚⁣ https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==⁣ ⁣ 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲⁣ https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs⁣

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