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In addition to everything said above, LOOK the part. Shoes shined, pants pressed, etc. If you are comfortable and feel like you look good, your confidence will be much better.
Get out fom behind the plate when the ball is in play. SO many newer umpires camp out back there and miss coverages, calls, and it leads to laziness - and coaches notice. It also helps to show the players and coaches that you are hustling and giving it your best.
On passed balls with no one on, give the pitcher a new ball while the catcher retrieves it. Even better, have the on-deck batters for both teams get them. On foul balls down the line, tell the fielders to "Let it go!" and send someone from the closest dugout to get it. You will shave 10-15 minutes off your game over 7 innings and the faster pace keeps everyone in the game.
High school coaches want strikes to be called!!!! Don't have a postage stamp strike zone...give 'em 1 ball of the inside and 1 and a half to 2 balls off the outside and everyone will be happy.
Don't go out there with an ego. Be calm, cool and professional.
And most importantly, HAVE FUN!
Let us know how it goes.
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