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1. Various states and organizations use the terms "registered" and "certified" as meaning basically the same thing. The umpire "belongs" to that organization or association, and has passed minimal requirments, usually a multiple choice or true false test, attendance at a mandated rules clinis, attendance at a certain number or percentage of available meeting and the ability to pay dues.
This does not really "certify" that an umpire has reached any level of quality above the minimum to take the field. Our advocation puts it upon the individual to study, work and improve in order to advance. Most of us do that willingly, if for no other reason, for self-satisfaction and the desire to be better than we are.
2. The terms "expert" and "rules/mechanics guru" are not bestowed upon one by one's self, but rather they are terms of respect that are earned over time and bestowed by others. As time goes on and one advance in knowledge and experience it becomes easier to decide whose opinon matter and whose does not. An old friend of mine is fond of saying
that while everyone is entitled to an opinion, not everyone's opinion is equal in weight. That may sound snobbish, but is never-the-less true. Wouldn't you value the opinion of a board certified surgeon with 20 years experience over that of a med-student or beginning GP?
3. A senior member at this board is one who has posted 100 times or more. Quantity has very little to do with quality. It says more about lifestyle than it does ability. When I see the tag "Senior Member", I look at the date of registration. If the "Senior Member" has been posting for just three or four months, it might suggest he has way too much time on his hands.
[Edited by GarthB on Jun 20th, 2002 at 12:19 PM]
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