"Facetious"
TAC,
Let me propose a hypothetical situation;
you are a rookie umpire and really enjoy the game but are having a tough time with HS, OBR and some local rec rules.
During one game, still early in your first season, you make what you think is the right call. You think that you read somewhere the exact ruling necessary to support your call. You are being asked about the call by one of the most successful (but doggone really nice) coaches in the area. He isn't really mad but concerned that you are misapplying a rule. The coach wants to know where the rule is so he can look it up. He isn't questioning your knowledge as much as checking his. I'm not suggesting that you pull out a rule book then and there, but you'd better be prepared to back it up with something other than, "That's my call and you can protest if you want." Would you dare quote an ancient newsletter?
Many guys work independently and the relationships with their coaches are crucial. If you are suggesting that they make something up it is a bad move. I would rather see them say, "Coach, I know it's in the Case Book and I'll have a look for it later. Right now, my call stands. Let's get them going again." The coach will probably buy it and may even look it up himself. Maybe he has a book worm assistant who is already poring over his highlighted books. That is why I was so adamant about the mystery rules!
I know that for guys with a few years under their belts, it is an easier bridge to sell. Maybe we have to eat some crow later on but our talent saves us from the wrath of a pissed off coach. I've met some of these guys in the supermarket or airport that still remember calls I made ten years ago. I'm at a comfortable point in my life where I can call most of them by first names and tease them about bad hit and runs or why they dropped a bunt in a certain situation. I would never suggest to my students that this is appropriate banter for a rookie. When you sit down in front of the screen, remember that some newbies out there need more than a smart comment or a war story to fall back on. Yes, an OOO may know the rule number and reference, but in certain situations, it'll save their butts too. I can quote the college balk rules to some of my coaches that still don't get it. One thing is sure, they leave knowing that if I called it, I know it's correct. (At least I hope they do!)