[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally posted by Dakota

I completely disagree with your complete disagreement! Actually, I don't completely disagree, I just liked the sound of saying that! What I do say is that this is entirely individual. Some people need the specific examples of the case book to put the rules into context, to help them visualize the application, and to learn it. This is pretty close to the advice given in the Umpire Manual, "To know the rules thoroughly requires constand and analytical study. It does not suffice to only read the rules. They must be studied so that mental pictures of plays and situations result." The case book can be a big help in putting the rules to work in real situations. My advice to a new umpire would be to read the rule book cover to cover. Then go back and study it thoroughly. Then, when you think you are ready, use the case book as a test. Cover the ruling of each case play, read the play, give your ruling (looking up the rules if you need to), and then uncover the ruling to read the official answer. Very effective learning technique, IMO.

Okay, I understand it's use as a tool, but I still have a problem with people possibly using it as a replacement to the learning the rules, sort of putting the cart before the horse thing.

As far as any errors, it is written for people to read. Many of the people in this country would strain to comprehend many of the rules if presented in 100% error-free.

True, but that does not mean errors help. Also, but that does not excuse poor syntax that actually contributes to misunderstanding, or poor choice of words that must be explained extensively in POEs and still results in inconsistent understanding, etc. The ASA rule book could benefit greatly by being gone over by a good umpire who is also an English teacher. Do you know any? [/B][/QUOTE]

Any idea why people don't read some of the old classics? The people I know consider many Dickens and Shakespeare workds to be to difficult to comprehend. There are concentrating so hard on understanding the words, they cannot visualize the scene. Granted, they are younger folks, but like it or not, they are the next generation of umpires and coaches.

Anyone study ASL (American Sign Language)? If you have, you are well aware that proper syntax and grammar are extremely overrated in the art of communication.

I agree that actual contradictions should be corrected, but not by someone who is going parse each phrase and then grade the work because it that is what works for them.


Someone can author anything from poetry to instructions for using a belt buckle. It can be perfectly composed, yet it isn't worth an out-of-play foul ball with two strikes in a FP game if the people to whom it is directed have a difficult time understanding it. After all, is that not why some writers opt for prose in lieu of poetry?

Anyone here ever start putting a model together by throwing out the instructions? With the exception of Roger, how many on this board can leisurely read most legal notices or writ? Before PlugNPlay, how many have tried to install hardware/software on a computer using strictly the written set of instructions? Ever try reading a dictionary?

I am not saying imperfections should be ignored, but there should definitely be allowances made for a succinct compilation of related rules without fear of the grammar police.

JMHO,