n the far-off kingdom of UpsideDownistan, fans flock to ballparks, stadiums, and arenas to see only the officials.

Strange to say, umpires, referees, and their ilk are heroes. Paid substantially more than the athletes they officiate, they are the stars of the show. So fans "ooh" and "ahh" a called third strike, they cheer when a striped shirt flags a pass interference, and at least half the spectators swoon in delight when the referee awards a penalty shot.

Obviously none of that is the case here in North America. In each of the three instances above, half the crowd, instead of cheering, is more likely to suggest the official's heritage is canine. Officials here understand that while we may be part of the show, we're not the part that people came to see. We are certainly talented and important, but the athletes are the ones who draw fans into the arena.

Continued...