[buddha69]

Originally posted by JEL
1. Right, buttonhook in and follow in the infield, just as drill we did Sunday with Merle. The only exception I can think of is a short hit to right, make sure before you come in you won't get beaned with an attempt at first.

2. You saw an out, you called an out, you did right. Were you in position to see the play? I doubt the coach was. Some will know you are new, and try and rattle your chain, you gotta be somewhat deaf. Coaches believe it or not, are biased towards their own team.

3. Sounds OK but you should anticipate the DP possibility, and position further in on infield to get angle at 1st. We also did this with Merle on Sunday, you were in other group, so you may not have worked that.

4. The wife and I worked with three new umpires today, (9-10 yr old BB scrimmages). One of these guys made a textbook out hammer, and yelled a crisp, clear "SAFE" didn' realize it until he was told. It is nerves, and will get better.

Keep working with your UIC, she's good. Ask her all the questions you can. Continue to work on the mechanics, when that is all second nature, your mind can focus completely on getting the calls right. It may take several games, but eventually all will start clicking together and calling will be fun.

BTW, Next Sat is rec opening day here, I will probably only get 1 softball game, but may have several baseball at our new 8 field complex. I have been calling HS baseball for a month now, but that opening day at the complex (two this year, 14 fields!) is always fun. Also have a ten year old son playing, and will be helping break in some of the new guys. All day at the ballpark, what can be better?

thanks JEL.

Yeah, the UIC is good, she will be keeping me under her wings for a few games next week. That is cool that your son is playing, I also have started my 5yr daughter in TeeBall this year. She gets pick for team on Thursday night on the 15th of april. Right before the BIG Senior Master Tournament in Town. I will be calling on Friday of the starting day. Seniors will be a ball, I had a chance to watch some of the pre-senior playball last weekend for the prep of next month tourney.

Thanks again
Buddha