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Originally Posted by CecilOne
I was trying to point out that we might be unfair holding the umpires in a few TV shots to the NCAA/ASA/NFHS mechanics because
1) "as I remember from years ago and a few recent observations"; many are volunteers who are there as recognition of their ability and
2) I don't remember any mechanics training at the league, district or state levels and
3) the mechanics might be different.
Thanks for stating the other side of the coin, and please correct me if my perceptions are no longer the norm.
I frequently work with an umpire who is highly skilled and I think LLWS or Regional level, who does not adjust to NFHS mechanics or practices; and is apparently used to not having structured mechanics.
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OK, now I think that's a valid point. Yes, we do have umpires in our area that are virtually untrained and they do struggle. Having been to the regional level and hoping to work the WS next year, I know they would get eaten alive at regionals. I do know in our district, we've had the Southern Region come in and do mechanics, but their mechanics ARE very different (as you pointed out). That's one of the things about LL that pisses me off. They think their way is THE way. Also in our district, our UIC and I have gone to several different leagues and held mechanics training for their league umpires. You perceptions are what they are - your perceptions. In your area that is probably correct and some of the things we see on TV do nothing to dispute that. I was simply pointing out that it is somewhat different than that in my area.
Speaking of mechanics, here's something to watch. LL wants the umpire's head heighth to be NO lower than the chin at the top of the catcher's helmet. That's the very lowest they want. I'm watching the Japan/Russia game and this guy is like a foot higher than that. Personally, I think that's too high. I think that hurts calling the outside corners. Do you think that's too high too?