Quote:
Originally posted by Mike M
With only three years of game experience under my belt all I can provide is my opinion how the Internet has enchanced my skills as an umpire. When I made the decision to umpire I visited numerous sites and printed out dozens of articles on various aspects of the umpiring (I did not find discussion boards until this year). It is my belief that cumulative knowledege contained in those articles accelerated my learning curve considerably. But perhaps the biggest thing the Net did was expose me to a level of professionalism and love of the game that umpires have. As a result, I make every effort to be a professional as I grow and learn.
Once last thought: The "experience" passed along on the Net versus the "experience" acquired during game while not the same, certainly has made me a better umpire. Thanks to all of you will take the time to enhance the skills of the new guys on the block.
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Mike,
I think that just three years expereince makes you a perfect source of info on the modern day Internet umpire. I have umpired ten years and went to a clinic my first year. I have been to one other since. These were local clinics run by a former Minor League umpire and a group of college officials. I think it is important to my intergrity and love of the game to get better. It is not linked to getting ahead. I am content doing Connie Mack baseball near to home.
I think the Internet speeds up your expereince by the shared expereince of others but it is tough to know who an authoriative source is and then choose from polar opposites. I think the Internet helped me with game management. For example a lefty pitcher has a border-line move to first. The runner is getting back. No big complaints. As the teams exchange sides I might let the coach (in earshot of the pitcher) know his move "needs a little attention". I correct the fault, don't have to call the balk, and the game moves smoothly.
I know some will say "You saw a balk -- Call it. What rules are you going to ignore tomorrow?" That is their privlige and they may be just as serious about umpiring as I am but we differ oon how to go about that. I think game management does not mean I have to constantly interject myself into games. Jim/NYC