Calling Bretman, and the rest of the Blue Brethern (and Sistern)

[default]

I will be retiring from my 2nd shift job next spring and am thinking of taking up the task of umpiring since the youngest dd will be in college next summer. Tips, or helpful suggestions for getting prepared?

 

[default]

Are you planning to do HS? The Elyria assoc definitely needs people. PM me if you need info on who to contact for the class next winter.

 

[default]

Go see a psychiatrist... ;& lol

 

[default]

Listen to ThompsonUSSSA. But if you choose to go to the dark side, go to OHSAA.org. There's a section for officials which tells you how to register for classes. (Funny how there's no Eye-test listed...)

 

[default]

Buy earplugs. Smile a lot - it drives 12u crazy fans nutz.

 

[default]

Dead serious with this comment: If you learn the rules for the sanctions you are officiating (I mean really know them) and have a consistent strike zone, I'm not going to say a word to discourage you; more power to you! The community NEEDS good umpires.

 

[default]

As an umpire myself, you will have the good with the bad. On every call you make, half the people in attendance will be happy and half will not. Except the obvious strikes, the corner calls are the same...half will be happy.
You can never make them all happy.
But if you can check your ego, learn and really know the rules and understand that your job is not to embarrass the coaches but to call the game as fairly and evenly as possible then you will love it.
It's the best view in the house!!

 

[default]

Thanks guys (That's a generic guys BTW). I appreciate the comments.