Game Management 2008 National Umpire School

Game Management Five Factors of Successful Umpiring Preparation Knowledge of the Rules Mechanics and Technique Judgment Listening and Communicating

Game Management Rules and Mechanics Tools of the Trade –Rules –Mechanics –Judgment and Communication

Game Management Rules and Mechanics Good Mechanics = Better Positioning = Better Judgment + Proper Game Management = Less Problems

Game Management Begins with YOU! Lead by Example.... Arrive Early Look the Part Prepare Establish a Rapport

Game Management Preparation Know and Understand the Dynamics of the Age Group Playing Greeting Players and Coaches Upon Arrival – First Impressions

Game Management Preparation and Rules Knowledge Learn the Terminology of Softball – Terms are a Common Ground Rules Knowledge = Confidence Common Sense Application of the Rules Preventive Umpiring

Game Management Mechanics and Technique Every Game You Work – Start Strong and Finish Strong Hustle! Know Where You are Suppose to go Timing – Slow Down Use Crisp ASA Signals – Strong Voice

Game Management Listening and Communicating Maintain a Calmness that Encourages Approachability Listen First, Then Listen Some More Be Aware of your Body Language, Tone of Voice, Demeanor and Field Presence

Game Management Listening and Communicating Answer Reasonable Questions Listen to Understand, Not to Respond Shift Focus from Emotion to the Play – What did you see? or What is it about the play that you think I missed?

Game Management Handling Difficult Situations Coaches on the Field While on Defense Arguing Balls and Strikes Coach talks to the Wrong Umpire Initially on a Call Coach Walks Half-way to Argue a Call

Game Management Handling Difficult Situations Coach Bolts onto the Field Without Requesting Time (Live Ball) Between Innings Politicking Coach Talks to You about Your Partners Strike Zone or a Call Made by Him / Her

Game Management When All Else Fails – EJECT Know Where to Draw the Line Eject When Necessary Deal With Abuse Abruptly Be Confident Walk Away – Do Not Continue to Engage Re-Focus, Get on with the Game

Game Management In Closing…. Develop Your Own Style Be Adaptable Be Consistent Give Respect Be Honest

Game Management In Closing…. MANAGE THE GAME, NOT THE INDIVIDUALS