1. UMPIRING CHOICES

2. There are many things that are going to happen to you as an umpire that you have no control over. On the other hand, there are many things which you can control. Be aware of this very important fact and consciously control the things you can control.

3. Many umpires complicate their jobs and fail to maximize their potential. Why does this happen? They make poor choices! Umpiring is a lot more than calling balls and strikes and safes and outs.

4. The following are typical examples of umpire behavior. Is it positive or negative? Arrive to the park 5 minutes before game time? Ignores one manager and is friendly with the other? Wears a clean, neatly pressed uniform and polished shoes? Fails to bring ALL of his equipment to the park? Listens intently to the manager’s argument? Negatively criticizes his rookie partner between innings with coaches and or fans? Refuses to check with his partner when he give the wrong count and is challenged by a coach?

5. More umpire behavior! Takes bases to storage area after final game of the day? Asks the manager for his help in controlling his rowdy players? Gives the out signal in a very casual, lazy manner on a very close play? Discusses close plays, coverage's, rules etc. with partner after the game?

6. What is expected of ALL Umpires? Have ALL your gear. Clean you pants, shirts, shoes, and hats regularly. Be on time arrive at the park no later than 20 minutes prior to game time; let someone know if you have a problem. Never no show. Take you field 10 minutes prior to the first scheduled game of the day. Fill out game cards and turn them in after each game. (THIS IS HOW YOU WILL BE PAID, NO CARD, NO PAY) Take bases to storage area after last game of the day.

7. Study your rule books!! We will cover a lot of baseball, but we will not cover every possible situation that may arise. Continually study all rule books. Ask questions, there are no stupid questions except the one’s not asked.