Quote:
|
Originally Posted by NYBLUE
I should have elaborated I guess.
I don't care what specs behind the backstop do unless they:
1. Direct negative comments towards me or about the strike zone.
2. Attempt to distract the batter (vocally) or pitcher (vocally or physically).
3. Tip pitches to the batter.
If I catch any of the above, I'm politely asking them to move.
Specs who simply sit back there to get a nice look at the game don't bother me none.
|
I remove anyone from the backstop who is doing anything but cheering in a positive manor. Coaching, interference(verbal), etc.
As for "strike zone" comments, and such from spec I go directly to the offenders coach. Our local assoc. has very specific rules on this type of conduct.
Basically, coaches are responsible for their fans. If coach will not attempt to control fan/parent, the coach is tossed and must pay a fine and go before the board before he/she can coach again. If he/she attempts to control the fan/parent and is unsuccessful then we toss the fan to the parking lot and they have pay a fine and go before the board to explain why they should be at their child's games in the future.
What this does is put the coach in the first position to control the fans/parents, and we are the last resort. Every parent and coach signs off on these rules at the beginning of the season.
It has really cut down on the verbal abuse of the umpires and the distractions for the players.