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[QUOTE=IRISHMAFIA]I agree with Steve's reasoning, however, I would disagree with allowing it.

To begin, like in many other areas, I have to compete for umpires. It is bad enough when a registered ASA umpire takes the training I provide and works for the competition when I need him for a tournament, I certainly am not going to do the competition's job without at least getting a registration and possible availabitlity out of it.

Irish makes a very good point here. As umpires we are really independent contractors, able to sell our services to any organization. We can not expect to get free training without recipricating in kind. I pay my dues to the local ASA chapter every year AND in addition pay for any national schools I attend.