[PeteBooth]

Originally posted by Marty Rogers

My personal practices: Don't wear a ball bag on bases, don't carry a rule book on the field, don't wear a watch, don't use an indicator on the bases, wear proper uniform (no white socks, t-shirts) with black belt and shoes, fitted hat (no beanie), don't be a "talker" chatting with coaches, players and your partner throughout the game. Just for the record: When other umps do these things, I keep my mouth shut (except for involuntary response mentioned above).

These don't touch on mechanics, but that could be another thread. Well, I'll mention one: These guys from another state always pointed to the pitcher's feet everytime he stepped onto the rubber. This drove me CRAZY, but they said it's what their association teaches.

This type of thread is an "association" thing more than a personal preference thread. The association in which one works dictates what one should wear including accessories.

I'll take STRONG exception to the following:

don't use an indicator on the bases
don't be a "talker" chatting with coaches, players

I ALWAYS use an indicator on the bases and it is preferred in the association in which I work. I know the PRo umpires do not carry indicators on the bases and I believe NCAA BU's do not carry them either, but to me this is both an "association" thing and a matter of preference.

As far as being a talker again I think this is a matter of preference and one's personality. IMO Umpiring should be fun and I personally don't mind chatting with the coaches / players. I agree we shouldn't converse with our partners during the game unless we have to, but chatting with players / coaches I don't think there is anything wrong with it.

I chatted when I played the game and I chat now.

Pete Booth