[officialtony]

First thing I would do with this partner, if I know ahead of time and I am PU, is ask him if there is anything special he and I should cover. Then I tell him that the coaches pregame is mine. He will be there as an observer only. I will answer any questions the coaches may present. He will be an observer. I tell him that if he has a problem with any of this he can take it up with the assignor - after the assignment is completed.

You cannot say anything to him in front of the coaches, but I would get him aside first opportunity and let him know he will never blindside you again in a coaches pregame.

In Ohio, double bases are allowed in Softball. It was adopted by our local school programs as optional. It is not mandatory, but every game I have had this year has used them. I like the idea, but I am very lenient on the calls there. I try to be sure no one gets hurt or interferes/obstructs. Other than that, we play ball.