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DG:
I don't think anyone has said (well maybe HHH did) that the rules be disobeyed. But that doesn't mean they can't be complained about, and that the umpires may "petition" for change. Yes, we are umpires, and therefore should understand that following the rules is necessary. But we also understand that some rules need to be changed.
Rules evolve. The hat rule was made before helmets were considered. Now that helmets are becoming commonplace, maybe the hat rule should be reconsidered.
As for long sleeve shirts, personally I don't like them and don't wear them, and I think a crew should be dressed alike. But if all the umpires on a crew want long sleeve shirts, then asking for the right to wear them is not out of the question.
Yes, we need to follow the rules. But that doesn't mean following blindly, with a "take it or leave it" attitude. Change from within the association can be a good thing.
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