1. EFFORT & PROFESSIONALISM
Appearance
Hustle
Mobility
Focus
Demeanor
Fraternization
Eagerness to learn and improve
Willingness to accept constructive criticism
Ten Commandments of Umpiring
Relationship with crew and others

2. APPEARANCE Hat Shirt Belt Proper color ball bags Pants Shoes
Not faded
No sweat marks
SGV logo clean
Shirt
Belt
Not scuffed or worn out
Proper color ball bags
Not faded or ripped
Pants
Match partner
Fit properly
Clean & Creased
Shoes
Shined
No dirt on sole
Spray water bottle

5. HUSTLE Anticipate all play possibilities but not their outcome
Proper positioning is defined by proper angle and distance
Proper angle is primary to distance
Proper positioning is a function of time.
There are three possible positions for every play
The call is a mental process and the signal is physical
No play can be considered routine until it is over

6. MOBILITY Physical Conditioning Don’t guard the plate
Cardio (Running/Walking)
Strength Training
Stretching
Don’t guard the plate
Proper pivot at B, when necessary
Get to where you are supposed to be NOW!

7. FOCUS
main emphasis: concentrated effort or attention on a particular thing
The previous call
A bad call
The crowd
The coaches
The players
Bread & milk

8. DEMENOR Ask the question, Why am I here?
Contrary to popular belief, throwing someone out of a game is not the goal of an umpire!
Best game result is not to be remembered.
You’re there to “Work”. You’re getting paid, do your job!

9. TACTICAL 8-STEP VERBAL JUDO
1. Greeting 2. Identify self / department 3. Reason for the stop 4. Justifiable reason 5. Request identification 6. Additional Information 7. Decision stage 8. Closure

10. FRATERNIZATION You’re not there to make friends.
Don’t be “BFF” with the managers & coaches
Don’t play around with the players
Don’t go into either dugout….EVER!
Don’t talk to people in the stands.
Don’t ask for food or drinks,
If they offer …maybe.

11. EGERNESS TO LEARN & IMPROVE
Continuing educations shows, and it is only as you improve that you will ascend the ladder of umpiring." – Harry Wendelstedt
Come to all SGV Clinics and Training
Go to a local Umpire Clinic
Get on the web and find umpire blogs
Purchase books and DVD’s

12. TEN COMMANDMENTS OF UMPIRING
A congenial attitude and professional appearance are essential. Clean, ironed shirts and trousers go a long way. If you look good and keep your mouth shut nobody will know you stink until you prove it. 
Never be confrontational. Don't carry a chip. 
Be courteous but not too friendly. Nobody cares what you did last night. 
Answer questions about judgment plays or rule interpretations in a calm and professional manner 
Never argue with players or mom. Confer with managers only. 
Don't take abuse from anybody. When they get personal with you warn them only once, then run 'em.
Know all the rules of your game and accept full responsibility for your interpretation of the rules. 
Don't go looking for trouble .... you are going to find it! 
Be patient with lesser experiences (younger) players.  Don’t coach.
Don't go looking for balks. Don’t make a balk your best call. 

13. RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR CREW
Give your partner a call the day of the game.
Who’s calling the plate
What uniform
Weather
Time of arrival
SGV Scheduler
Call if your going to be late
Call after an ejection
Check your Arbiter frequently and keep your availability updated.
Coaches, League Officers, etc
Stay clear