From: "Allen Crise" <flysoup@xxxxxxxxxx>
To: "Gordon Hill" <hillshead@xxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: Observations of MCI candidates at Conclave
Date: Fri, 26 Aug 2005 10:50:49 -0500
Howdy Gordy,
I just read Jim's test recount.
I have seen one thing happen every time to every candidate. THE WALL. I know of no other name for it. The Candidate is running along doing everything right. Giving correct answers, making great cast tight loops. THEN Bang just like someone slipped a Mickey Finn to them. Nothing blank no thought process. Just a Blank Wall. How the Masters and testers handle this wall is often the make or break point in the testing. We have all seen it happen. How we as Masters help or end the test is something we each have to decide as Masters. Some times little hints. Restating the question. Moving around to different place so as to restart the candidates brain. I know that it happens and it happens when I am teaching. Something will slip in to my head stir up the connections and the Wall is
hit. How a candidate will handle the WALL is all part of the test. Because it will happen on the demo or lecture tour.
Jim did give something that needs to be brought out. AFTER you are a Master. You are on a different plane, level or what every you place your self esteem on. You are one of the BEST of the Casting World. YOU will carry this with each cast you make. You will hold yourself to higher level of casting. Because you are a MASTER CASTING INSTRUCTOR. If you think you have it made because you passed the test. Forget it you are tested each time you pick up a rod.
My advice make good loops not long cast. Make neat mends and great hooks. Work on looking Good at close distances. The Hail Mary cast is for show. The control of the line is for Master instructors.
ol Al