[Rich Coyle]

I try very hard to not be overly officious. I beleive it was on this board that somebody suggested that we "not look for boogers" -- I couldn't agree more.

There are RULES that directly affect the outcome of the game. Three strikes are an out, a ball in flight leaving the field is a home run, interference, obstruction, etc.

There are rules that do not directly affect the outcome of the game. In sub-varsity play, many schools do not budget for coach's uni's -- I always tell the new guys to judge whether the guy is trying to look like he's with the team (school colors, etc.) or whether one of the three coaches is just an ***.

Similarly, I don't stand with a stop watch on the 20sec rule --- rather, I've developed the sense to know when somebody is delaying the game and I'll talk with the coach between innings.

While is should go without saying, safety rules are always enforced as are sportsmanship rules at all youth levels. When I work adult ball, my tolerance for some verbal stuff is a little larger.

I guess the analogy is this: the speed limit is 65 mph on the highway; I don't think I know of anybody who has gotten a ticket for 67. They were breaking the law but it was not worth enforcing.

Just my 2 cents worth...