Quote:
Originally posted by RPatrino
WWTB, I disagree.
We CANNOT teach honesty and integrity, which I believe is fundamental to being "fair". We CAN teach technique and mechanics, we can teach the rules, we can drill timing.
We can teach how to get in position to call a play, we can teach the "way" to call the play. We can teach the proper way to use the eyes, the timing, but we cannot teach judgement.
To me it is dishonest and unethical, if an umpire clearly sees the play as an out, but intentionally calls the runner safe. Does it happen, of course. Umpires that do this can never be "good" in my opinion.
Now, an umpire that mistakenly calls the runner safe, but knows after careful reflection that the runner was really out, then thats a kicked call. We've all had that happen. If you are "good", then you learn and move on.
Bob
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Fair enough, Bob...again, we have a problem with definitions and perception when discussing this topic.
As I said, I can teach an umpire how to call the play according to the rules - that would be fair. I can teach them that we don't "even up" tough calls or treat teams special. Instruction can be given to show them how to deal with volatile situations that need to be treated equitably. That is what I was referring to. Execution of these ideals is no different than proper mechanics.
I understand that we cannot groom integrity, if an umpire is predisposed otherwise. Some apples just taste bad. Your point that we can teach them proper positioning and how to deal with a kicked call are valid and I intimated that they are part of the equation. However, we can only provide so much to the newbie. We have to hope that they absorbed the fundamentals and will grow. The base block in all umpiring is fairness. Look at our young guys; they try to be fair to a fault. When they can add the hustle, timing, communication skills and desire to the mix, they may be considered good.
This is the time of year when I start planning the next training sessions. Hearing those first 'out' and 'safes', pulling the wrong hand down, folding the thumb back in...that's what it's all about. Happy New Year, Bob!