For over four decades, Bill Hammond cherished his role as a basketball referee in Chautauqua County. His career came to an emotional close when he witnessed the decline of a fellow veteran official, a long-time friend and partner on the court. This experience highlighted issues within the officiating board regarding oversight and support for its members. Despite years of dedication and camaraderie, Hammond's grievance about neglectful practices fell on deaf ears, leaving him disheartened yet grateful for the memories forged with his colleague.
In 1978, Hammond joined IAABO Board 39, where he spent countless hours alongside colleagues ensuring fair play across various levels of competition. By early 2020, however, the pandemic brought his tenure to an end. One particular incident stood out near the conclusion of his career—a request from a board officer tasked him with evaluating another seasoned official's competency due to alarming reports of erratic behavior. This individual, also in his seventies, had been Hammond's most frequent partner through numerous games over many years.
During the 2018-19 season, this colleague mysteriously vanished from meetings and pairings without explanation, raising suspicions among peers about potential cognitive decline. When finally asked to assess his condition, Hammond arrived at their assigned game only to find his partner bewildered and unprepared. Instead of preparing in the locker room, the man sat idly on a bench before asking confusing questions during gameplay. The resulting match was chaotic, prompting concern from both teams' coaching staff.
This distressing episode underscored not just personal failings but systemic shortcomings within IAABO Board 39 itself. While officials often gossip about one another, critical matters like those involving mental health warranted swift action rather than prolonged silence. Unfortunately, no response followed Hammond's formal complaint regarding these lapses, deepening his frustration over how such situations were handled.
Ultimately, it emerged that dementia affected his longtime companion. Though anger lingered over missed opportunities for intervention, Hammond reflects fondly on their shared journey. Their bond exemplified what made officiating so meaningful—friendship underpinned by mutual respect and commitment until life inevitably called them away from the court.
As Hammond looks back on his storied career, he honors his departed friend while acknowledging imperfections within the system they served together. Through trials and triumphs alike, they left an indelible mark on local sports communities, inspiring future generations to uphold integrity and compassion in every whistle blown.