[ac]

thanks for the replies. to clarify a bit more, the coaches did initially hold their baserunners. they say I should have repeated the call especially at this age level (where, they argue, it is common for umps to show some leniency, e.g., on a balk call and even briefly help instruct a kid). It was after a few seconds that the kid on 2nd took off. I did stay quiet which they say was in error.

I guess the agrument that bothers me the most is that the rule does state that I should make the call "for the benefit of the runner".

I have found out today that there will be no protest and that the coaches never considered it. It was apparently a parent (imagine that) who started the rumor of a protest.

I just want to get better and improve how I handle that situation.