Ace:
This is an opinion and an attitude I can respect, from someone who is "putting their money where their mouth is." Clearly you are someone who is not only doing their best to be the best, but in your assistance and consulting with volunteer umpires to help them to be their best you are also improving your community and the game. You see what is wrong and try to fix it, rather than just degrade and downplay those that aren't at the same level. If I were in your district, I would be contacting you immediately for assistance in finding the best umpiring training available in my area. BTW, if you have more information in District 4 (SW Washington), let me know. I have received information from Tim C (thanks!) for the Portland, Oregon metro area, and am working with Northwest Umpires Association, Evergreen Baseball Umpires Association, and District 4 LL to develop my skills. I totally agree with your post and will encourage all the people I work with to better themselves as umpires in this fashion.
Thanks again, for the support and the kick in the pants to get going!
Greg Owens
[email protected]