[SWFLguy]

I have become convinced that the only way most areas will ever recruit and retain new officials is to pay more $$$$$ !!!
I live in an area that is not only growing--new schools being built--but
the umpires are a bit "long in the tooth" as it were.
Looking at the cost (money and time) involved for a beginning umpire-- gear, uniforms,
attending meetings, taking tests-- it is no wonder why we are all having
a hard time getting new people. When you look at the financial return--
you do not have to be a CPA to see why so few would want to get into umpiring-- or for that matter, officiating most any sport !
I think it is high time that the powers that be--state and local get serious about attracting new and quality officials.
When you look at the total budget of most schools-- I do not think it would
be unreasonable to pay officals for many sports in the $100 a game range.
Imagine your next next association meeting when those levels of pay are
made available !!