[Cubbies87]

The age factor should not be considered in this assignment. However, I will admit that I am very biased in this opinion: I work High School games where the kids are my age.

While some 17-18 year olds look like they are much older, I am not one of them. When I had the plate meeting of my first game of the day yesterday, the visiting coach came out and said, "Wow. I feel like my son is umping for me." I smiled, and started the plate meeting.

If you conduct yourself in a professional manner and don't allow anybody to walk over you, the game will be played and you will receive the respect you are due. If you fear that you aren't being taken seriously, start tossing players and coaches that don't show you the respect you deserve.

While I was pretty sure that the coaches comment was harmless, I kept an eye and an ear on the coach to see if I received any disrespect. After the game, the very same coach asked me if I would be willing to do more games for him at his home field. I told him he could speak with my assignor if that is what he wished.

While first impressions play a part, it is your actions and judgement on the field that the coaches and players will walk away with at the end of the game. Forget the age and appearance of the umpire, and look at the performance.