The Crown Refs Podcast

In this episode, we are thrilled to introduce Mikaiya, whose tenacity for growth and improvement has motivated her to pursue excellence in officiating. We were excited to meet her for the first time during this call, as she recently signed up for the Crown Refs 1-1 tier on Patreon. Mikaiya's dedication to enhancing her skills and knowledge is truly inspiring, and we are honored to be part of her journey. In this insightful session, Mikaiya delves into several important topics that are crucial for any aspiring referee. We discussed effective positioning techniques, the importance of maintaining a strong vocal presence, and strategies for managing game flow and player interactions. Mikaiya's questions led to deep dives into practical tips for handling high-pressure situations and improving signal clarity. Throughout our conversation, some big learning insights emerged, including the significance of continuous self-assessment and the value of constructive feedback from mentors. Mikaiya's commitment to honing her craft exemplifies the spirit of Crown Refs, and her journey offers valuable lessons for officials at all levels. This episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring moments that highlight the importance of perseverance and a growth mindset in officiating. 👕👚 Crown Refs Merch Shop https://crown-refs-merch.myspreadshop.com/ 🤝🏡 Join the Crown Refs Community patreon.com/crownrefs/memberships

We are excited to welcome Brian Kenney, a wonderful human being with a rich and diverse background. Brian is a former Division I official, a current JUCO and high school assignor, a retired special education teacher, and the owner of a successful team-building company. Brian, who is also an author, discusses his latest book, "Figuring It Out: A Youth Guide to Navigating Life's Construction Curves," available on Amazon. The book delves into personal development and overcoming life's challenges, inspired by the story of a young double amputee. Brian shares his multifaceted journey, offering valuable insights into the importance of mentorship, talent development, and fostering a growth mindset.Throughout the episode, Paul and Brian explore various topics, including the significance of video analysis in officiating camps, the power of community engagement, and the role of family involvement in refereeing. Brian's emphasis on slowing down and improving communication with the table and coaches provides practical advice for officials at all levels. The discussion also touches on Brian's personal struggles with gambling addiction and his commitment to helping others navigate similar challenges through his writing and mentoring. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the therapeutic benefits of challenging oneself and the importance of maintaining a positive presence in their communities.📖 Figuring it Out: A Youth Guide to Navigating Lifes Construction Curves to Build Your Best Life https://a.co/d/eXgsiRc👚👕 Crown Refs Merch Shophttps://crown-refs-merch.myspreadshop.com🤝🔗 Join the Crown Refs CommunityPatreon.com/crownrefs/memberships

In this episode of the Crown Refs Podcast as we sit down with NCAA men’s official Clarence Armstrong. Clarence, a former standout basketball player and all-time leading scorer at ChiChester High School, went on to play four years at Drexel University before transitioning to officiating in 1999. Reaching the Division 1 level in 2008, Clarence now works in 13 conferences and has officiated in multiple NCAA tournaments. A proud father and dedicated mentor, Clarence shares his incredible journey from being a player who disliked referees to becoming one of the most respected officials in the game.Mr. Armstrong delves into various aspects of his officiating career, offering invaluable insights and tips. We discuss the importance of building rapport with players, using proactive communication, and the role of preventative officiating. Clarence shares his experiences with handling mistakes, maintaining physical fitness, and the benefits of attending teaching camps. He emphasizes the significance of mentorship, clear communication when reporting fouls, and staying true to oneself at officiating camps. Whether you’re an experienced official or just starting out, Clarence’s passion, dedication, and practical advice will inspire and guide you in your officiating journey.🔗 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣Patreon.com/crownrefs/memberships⁣⁣🛒 𝗖𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝘀 𝗠𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽⁣https://crown-refs-merch.myspreadshop.com⁣⁣🧑‍🎓 𝗘𝗻𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹: 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝘁 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗽⁣https://signalschool.teachable.com/p/signal-school-boot-camp1

In this insightful episode we welcome Duane Jourdeans, an expert in emotional intelligence and positive psychology, to explore the critical role of emotional intelligence (EI) in the realm of officiating and beyond.⁣ ⁣ Dwayne has spent 29 years in education, coaching, and consulting with organizations like the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Positive Coaching Alliance and more. He introduces the concept of EI, defining it as the ability to understand, manage, and utilize emotions effectively in various situations.⁣ ⁣ This episode emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, empathy, authenticity, emotional reasoning, self-management, and inspiring performance. We participated in a detailed self-assessment, to identify areas for improvement and offering practical strategies to enhance EI.⁣ ⁣ Key learning insights include:⁣ ⁣ •The impact of positive and negative emotions on performance and well-being.⁣ •Strategies for improving self-awareness and managing emotions in high-pressure situations.⁣ •The significance of positive relationships and engagement in fostering a thriving environment.⁣ •Practical tips for recognizing and inspiring performance in others, particularly in the context of officiating.⁣ ⁣ Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of EI and actionable steps to incorporate these principles into their personal and professional lives, ultimately becoming more effective and emotionally intelligent officials and individuals.⁣ ⁣ 🤝 Join our Community⁣ 🔗 patreon.com/crownrefs/memberships

In this episode of "Crown Refs," we sit down with Quincy Smith, a remarkable 15-year-old basketball official from Minneapolis, Minnesota. Quincy shares his journey into officiating, balancing his roles as a player in both basketball and football, and his aspirations to officiate at the college or professional level.⁣ ⁣ Quincy reflects on being inspired by young officials the impact of his mentors, who’ve helped connect him with the Minneapolis board. He talks about the challenges of starting officiating at a young age, the support he received, and how he quickly moved up from YMCA games to more competitive settings.⁣ ⁣ Quincy discusses his first officiating camp, emphasizing the importance of feedback, projecting confidence through his voice, and learning the value of a patient whistle. He shares insights into mentoring relationships that have helped him grow both on and off the court.⁣ ⁣ Quincy's story is a testament to dedication, passion, and community support in achieving one's goals. Join us for an inspiring conversation that highlights the bright future of basketball officiating and the young talent shaping the game.⁣ ⁣ ❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣ Patreon.com/crownrefs⁣

In this milestone episode of The Crown Refs Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome world-class entrepreneur and best-selling author Gary Vaynerchuk. Gary, also known as Gary Vee, is a digital marketing pioneer, the CEO of VaynerMedia, and the creator of VaynerX. His influence extends beyond the business world, having authored five New York Times bestsellers, including "Crush It!" and "The Thank You Economy." As a highly sought-after public speaker, Gary shares his extensive knowledge and insights on various platforms, inspiring millions worldwide.⁣ ⁣ 𝗧𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗰𝘀 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗱:⁣ ⁣ •𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁: Gary emphasizes the importance of players and coaches building positive relationships with referees and how respect and likability can influence their decisions.⁣ ⁣ •𝗠𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀: Practical advice on using gratitude to manage stress and verbal abuse, essential for officials at all levels.⁣ ⁣ •𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲: Gary shares his perspective on the current state of sportsmanship and whether civility in sports culture can improve.⁣ ⁣ •𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗦𝘂𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀: Gary highlights the importance of patience, compassion, and empathy for referees, acknowledging the fast-paced and challenging nature of the job.⁣ ⁣ •𝗖𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗺: Strategies for dealing with public scrutiny and verbal abuse, and the importance of knowing individual referees' characteristics and tendencies.⁣ ⁣ •𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆: Gary's advice on the importance of producing content across all platforms to capture and grow audience attention.⁣ ⁣ 𝗕𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀:⁣ ⁣ •𝗚𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲 𝗮𝘀 𝗮 𝗧𝗼𝗼𝗹: Emphasizing gratitude can help officials maintain mental toughness and resilience.⁣ ⁣ •𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻: Recognizing the emotional intensity of athletes and maintaining empathy and patience can improve officiating effectiveness.⁣ ⁣ •𝗖𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀: While optimistic in many areas, Gary expresses concern about the decline in civility and the impact of negative fan behavior on officials.⁣ ⁣ 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗚𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗩𝗮𝘆𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗵𝘂𝗸:⁣ ⁣ Gary Vaynerchuk is renowned for his groundbreaking work in digital marketing and social media. As the CEO of VaynerMedia, he has helped countless businesses grow through innovative strategies. He is also the creator of VaynerX, a modern media and communications holding company.⁣ ⁣ In addition to VaynerMedia and VaynerX, Gary has founded several other successful businesses:⁣ ⁣ •𝗩𝗲𝗲𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀: An NFT project centered around characters that embody traits and qualities essential for happiness and success.⁣ •𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗵𝘆 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀: A direct-to-consumer wine business offering high-quality wines at affordable prices.⁣ •𝗩𝗮𝘆𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀: A full-service athlete representation agency.⁣ •𝗩𝗮𝘆𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: A production company that creates content across various platforms.⁣ •𝗩𝗮𝘆𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗲: An e-commerce strategy and implementation agency.⁣ ⁣ Gary's content extends into various fields, including mindset and emotional intelligence. He consistently produces information aimed at helping individuals achieve personal and professional fulfillment. Through his podcasts, videos, books, and social media presence, Gary offers practical advice on building a successful and happy life.⁣ ⁣ Gary's newest book, "𝗗𝗮𝘆𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻”, has been recently released, providing fresh insights into how to capture and retain attention in today's fast-paced digital world.⁣ ⁣ 𝗔 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗬𝗼𝘂:⁣ ⁣ We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Gary for his pivotal role in helping Crown Refs develop into the platform and community we are today. His positivity, insights, and daily education on content production have been instrumental in our growth and success❤️.⁣ ⁣ 🏀 Join our Patreon Community⁣ Patreon.com/crownrefs⁣ ⁣ 📙Buy Gary’s new book⁣ https://garyvaynerchuk.com/attention/

In this episode, we dive into enhancing communication with coaches and improving your confidence. Building on our prior material, we share updates to the Rapid Response Toolkit. The episode focuses on strategies for effective coach communication, maintaining court presence, and implementing rapid responses to manage unsporting behavior.⁣ ⁣ 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀:⁣ ⁣ 𝟭. 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘁 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀:⁣ •Build a timeline of coach comments, questions, and behavior.⁣ •Recognize the pattern of interactions to respond appropriately.⁣ ⁣ 𝟮. 𝗜𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻:⁣ •Be proactive in engaging with coaches at appropriate times (e.g., timeouts, dead balls).⁣ •Approach with confidence and establish authority without aggression.⁣ ⁣ 𝟯. 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻:⁣ •Use clear and confident body language.⁣ •Deliver rapid responses tailored to the situation.⁣ •Incorporate rule-based language and ask specific questions to maintain control of the conversation.⁣ ⁣ 𝟰. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄-𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵:⁣ •Continuously monitor coach behavior and maintain consistent messaging.⁣ •Recognize when a coach is not compliant and enforce the rules accordingly.⁣ •Understand the importance of consistent application of sportsmanship rules to maintain game integrity.⁣ ⁣ We will continue to emphasize the need for proactive engagement, clear communication, and consistent enforcement to ensure a smooth and respectful game environment.⁣ ⁣ ❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣ Patreon.com/crownrefs⁣ ⁣ 🐐 𝗧𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗔𝗜 𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗿 ‘𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗳 𝗚𝗼𝗮𝘁’⁣ https://chat.opens.com/g/g-iLd0j1I6Y-the-ref-goat⁣ ⁣ 🗣️ 𝗕𝘂𝘆 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗥𝗮𝗽𝗶𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗦𝗰𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗼 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗸⁣ https://www.patreon.com/crownrefs/shop/165155?utm_campaign=productshare_creator

In this special episode, we take the listeners on a heartfelt journey as we reach out to eight officials to award them scholarships for the upcoming camp season. This episode is a testament to the commitment and passion that defines the Crown Refs community.⁣ ⁣ This episode blends humor, encouragement, and heartfelt recognition, capturing the essence of what it means to be part of the Crown Refs community. Our interactions are engaging and uplifting, making for an inspiring and entertaining listening experience. We hope this episode not only celebrates the scholarship recipients but also inspires all officials to continue their journey with passion and dedication.⁣ ⁣ 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀:⁣ ⁣ • Corey Powell⁣ • Charlene Pham⁣ • Zach Villemaire⁣ • Connor Schoenfeld⁣ • Julie Choat⁣ • Sal Schwartz⁣ • Jason Hays⁣ • Devonte Jackson⁣

This 1-on-1 training session part of the Crown Refs mentoring program provided numerous insights and tips for aspiring basketball officials. Here are some of the major takeaways:⁣ ⁣ ⁣ 1. 𝗔𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀:⁣ ⁣ • The significance of participating in refereeing camps for personal and professional development was stressed. These camps are not only for learning but also for networking, receiving direct feedback, and possibly being noticed by scouts or higher league officials.⁣ ⁣ 2. 𝗥𝘂𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆:⁣ ⁣ • The necessity of having a deep understanding of the rules of basketball was highlighted as foundational to successful officiating. It is recommended to study the rule book regularly and to use real-game scenarios to solidify rule knowledge.⁣ ⁣ 3. 𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻-𝗚𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗦𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀:⁣ ⁣ • Tips on managing real-time game situations, such as dealing with disputed plays or calls, were discussed. The importance of staying calm, being patient, and letting plays fully develop before making a decision was emphasized.⁣ ⁣ 4. 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻:⁣ ⁣ • Good communication skills with coaches, players, and fellow officials are crucial. The ability to de-escalate tense situations and explain decisions clearly and confidently can help maintain control over the game.⁣ ⁣ 5. 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲𝘀:⁣ ⁣ • The session touched on the importance of learning from one’s mistakes. Being reflective and constructive about errors made during games can lead to significant improvement and better performance in future games.⁣ ⁣ 6. 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻:⁣ ⁣ • Guidance on how to approach career progression in officiating was given, including the importance of setting long-term goals and the steps needed to achieve them, such as attending specific camps and networking effectively.⁣ ⁣ 7. 𝗦𝗲𝗹𝗳-𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗾𝘂𝗲:⁣ ⁣ • The importance of self-review and critique through watching game tapes was discussed. Being one’s own critic, while maintaining a positive and constructive outlook, helps refine officiating skills.⁣ ⁣ 8. 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴:⁣ ⁣ • Engaging with a community of referees can provide support, insights, and opportunities. Sharing experiences and advice within a mentorship program like Crown Refs can accelerate learning and professional growth.⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣ Patreon.com/crownrefs⁣ ⁣ 🐐 𝗧𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗔𝗜 𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗿 ‘𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗳 𝗚𝗼𝗮𝘁’⁣ https://chat.opens.com/g/g-iLd0j1I6Y-the-ref-goat⁣ ⁣ 🗣️ 𝗕𝘂𝘆 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗥𝗮𝗽𝗶𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗦𝗰𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗼 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗸⁣ https://www.patreon.com/crownrefs/shop/165155?utm_campaign=productshare_creator

Ben Lampron, a dedicated basketball official with the Minneapolis Officials Association, is a 3rd-year official from Edina, MN. Beyond the court, he is the author of "Jumpstart Your Future," a book aimed at mentoring young professionals. Ben's approach to both his professional and officiating careers emphasizes the importance of active engagement, showing up for every possible learning opportunity, and the power of a strong start. He highlights the need for commitment, humility, and respect in all interactions, which resonate through his personal philosophy and the advice he shares.⁣ ⁣ In this episode, we discussed various aspects of his journey as an official and an author. He shared insights into the complexities of basketball officiating, such as adapting to new rules like the shot clock and the nuances of communicating effectively with coaches and players. His discussion also touched on the importance of self-investment, whether through attending clinics, seeking mentorship, or participating in community engagements. Ben’s enthusiasm for basketball officiating is evident as he describes it as a joyful and fulfilling part of his life, emphasizing that each game is a blessing and an opportunity to learn and improve.⁣ ⁣ ⁣ 📕𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗕𝗲𝗻'𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗼𝘄⁣ https://www.amazon.com/Jumpstart-Your-Future-Building-Relationships/dp/1948382172⁣ ⁣ ❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆⁣ Patreon.com/crownrefs⁣ ⁣ 🐐 𝗧𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗔𝗜 𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗿 ‘𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗳 𝗚𝗼𝗮𝘁’⁣ https://chat.opens.com/g/g-iLd0j1I6Y-the-ref-goat⁣ ⁣ 🗣️ 𝗕𝘂𝘆 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗥𝗮𝗽𝗶𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗦𝗰𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗼 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗸⁣ https://www.patreon.com/crownrefs/shop/165155?utm_campaign=productshare_creator