If you started officiating during this COVID year you will come to realize the importance of communication. Supervisors are now strongly recommending that officials wear a mask at all times. This means during live play as you run up and down the court. With a mask on communication with your partners is even more important. You have to adopt an intentional way of communicating. This might mean being slower with your mechanics your signals and your pronunciation. I found myself taking pauses to communicate with my partners. I know people with hearing disabilities are looking at the world saying, “Now you know how I feel”. New beginnings. Be safe, adapt and wear a mask.​