[IRISHMAFIA]

Don,

Clean uniforms are a must, pants pressed. Shoes and belt should be clean and polished. No need for a mirror-like shine as some consider this overkill and an attempt to show-up other umpires. Don't forget to take shoe polish, rag and brush with you.

Now that you have stopped going, "Huh? What did he say?", it is true and some UICs actually believe the patent leather belts and shoes do not belong on the field.

You should have at least 3-4 hats, even in SP. And, if you sweat heavily, plenty of underwear, shirts (white) and shorts.

If you are staying in a hotel with laundry service, make sure to ask if their facilities are open on the weekends as some are not.

ASA ball bags, not plain blue ones, should be properly stocked with two indicators, line-up card holder, pen/pencil, flipping coin and a plate brush. If you have an old plate brush, you should have that available for use if you work in bad weather.

If you don't already have one, buy a quart-sized water bottle with an insulated carrier. Buy a clip of some type to hang that bottle from the fence while on the field. Also, take a hand towel with you. That if for you, not the ball.

Lastly, pay attention to what you are told to do by the UIC. If it is Walt Sparks, tell him I said hello. I really appreciated working for him. We had a pretty good time in Pensacola.

Take every opportunity to socialize with your fellow umpires. You will hear some great stories, but you will also find out who is supposed to be there and who shouldn't have been assigned.

No matter what else is said, remember that your instructions will come to you by the person who is going to rate you, the UIC. Do not let an "I know better" umpire talk you into changing mechanics without just cause. Cover the game like the book states, but remember the idea is to get the plays covered even if it is not your assignment. Just make sure you communicate if you need to cover something out of the routine. Hustle means getting into position to see the play, not outrunning the players.

When working the plate, remember the strike zone is 27" wide, use it. Do not let the batters or catchers put on a show everytime they do not like a call. It will happen, just not a dramatically as it does locally. OTOH, this is not the local leagues and the umpires are expected to not react/respond to some of the antics. No matter what happens, remain calm, listen and watch whatever is going on, then TELL them what is going to happen if it continues. At this level, it should be more subdued that league play, but they are still "D" players and haven't grasped what it means to play at a National level.

Don't worry, be happy and above all else, insist on having a good time!