[JRutledge]

Originally posted by Kaliix
Tim,
I understand what you are saying and I realize you not arguing with me. Please know that I'm not arguing with you either.

In the association I belong to, I have been told at training that we could wear a hockey style mask if we want. The instructor even stated that he would probably wear one if he were a new guy, but that he is too used to the mask.

I am only a second year umpire and I have not and probably won't do any high school playoff games for some time. I did do some state playoff games for 14 and under last year, but that's about as much as I am likely to see. Here, the coaches have to have select you to work the high school playoffs. The coaches make you eligable, then the games are assigned. I am not certain of the criteria at that point, though I'm sure seniority plays a major role.

I know that we are not given any formal evaluations. I wish we were, as I would like to know what I could improve on. It would also standardize the way we work. From what I see so far, the big dogs here keep things on the down low as a way of keeping their positions. The only training that is done is for first and second year umpires. Everyone else is left to their own devices. That is why I anxious to get to a camp as soon as my life will allow. Until then, I read all that I can from the redbook, the rulebook, JR and on this board and try to become as good an umpire as I can be. From all that I've heard from other umpires, I am doing well so far. Which is good to know, as I am trying hard to do this right. The Marine in me would have it no other way.

I can speak for what where I live only. Wearing a helmet or not wearing a helmet is not an issue where I live. You can wear pretty much what you like within the guidelines (color uniform for example). Of course some things are more acceptable and other things are not as acceptable. Playoff opportunities deal more with how many games you work, ratings and whether you get on enough top 15 lists than if you wear one item of umpiring equipment.

Peace