A Corpus Christi Pee-Wee football coach who charged and knocked down a game referee is blaming the 18-year-old ref for the attack.
Witnesses said the coach, Robert Watson was angry at the ref for ordering him off the field for cursing -- as well as at his 5- and 6-year-old players for not blocking. Watson's team, the Titans, was trailing the 49ers 12-6 with 10 seconds left in the Pee-Wee league's championship game when the incident happened.
Police Captain John Houston said the coach had been warned several times about cursing on the sidelines before his ejection. Houston said the referee was left briefly unconscious by the attack but is otherwise alright.
In the face of increasing amounts of abuse such as this from players, coaches and fans, many officials are leaving the profession. But there are steps you can take to help keep them around.
Trish:
I have a youth sports blog that relates to many issues you cover in your blog. I am in Albany, NY, and thought this would be a great way to support local teams even though we don't have space to do it in the actual newspaper. Thought you might want to check it out the latest discussion regarding softball...as it seems our area softball players are my biggest fans!
http://blogs.timesunion.com/youthsports/