Quote:
Originally Posted by TussAgee11
I've heard ..... that I put off an image that I think everyone is there to see me officiate.
|
Most people here have focussed on a possible perception of arrogance, but even non-arrogant and quite competent umpires can appear to desire attention. Unnecessarily interrupting the flow of the game can lead to such an image.
For example,
- After the batter and pitcher are nearly set, calling time to set right an open gate, or ask a bucket-sitting coach to stay in the dugout.
- Bob Jenkins has already mentioned OOO activities, and interrupting the game to perform them (as opposed to between innings) makes it worse.
- In the middle of an inning, calling a coach or your partner over to confer for no apparent reason.
- An umpire who doesn't verbalize ball calls, and who also slows down the timing of his strike call when there is a potential ball 4.
Apparent youth may play a part in perceived arrogance (although I think competence trumps youth every time), but I doubt that youthfulness would foster the impression that an umpire desires to be a major attraction.