We just started an early season play date for 12B and 14B teams with coaches and mentoring umpires on the field to teach the players and 1st and 2nd year umpires during live action. There is no pressure for the players to play to win since we don't keep score and everyone learns a ton. We felt it went very well and received tremendous response from the coaches and new umpires. Unfortunately, we don't have the ability to continue with the mentor thing throughout the year, partners will mix and match, but we have several weekend tournaments where progress can be monitored and bad habits fixed early.
I think what you have, Bugg is another great way to ease new blood into the game and a great story as well.
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Wade Ireland
Softball Umpire
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