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Early in my career, there was this assistant that would tell the base umpire a joke every other inning or so. I thought it was fun. After a while I began to realize I was more than likely being manipulated by this old timer. Once I learned the proper place to stand between innings as a base umpire that never became a problem again. Think how awkward and destrucive a situation that can cause if a whacker at first goes against that "friendly" coach who you have bantered with all game. If any of your jokes back to him were a little off color, he could select some lines to use against you. The humor alone could lead him into saying you don't take the game serious enough.
I try not to be a prick out there, but keep in mind it's probably about 40 against 2. By keeping affective communication lines open with all 40 participants you decrease your own effectiveness.
We all can choose to speak to whomever we choose. It's about keeping control of the game. Different games and individuals can dictate different levels of tolerance. Talk all you want, but when it comes back to bite you in the ***...
D
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