Quote:
Originally Posted by NCASAUmp
This last statement is something I must disagree with. While the uniform does not make the umpire better, a professional appearance does greatly influence how others will perceive you. Ask any soldier, "does polishing your boots make you a better soldier?" The answer is, "yes, because I polish my boots." There is NOTHING like a sharp-looking umpire on the field, and while a sharp uniform will not make your calls better or give you a greater understanding of the rules, it will influence how you are perceived on the field.
I'm no fashion expert. I leave that to my wife. However, the heather grey and powder blue is such a bland combination that it gives the umpire zero presence on the field. On the other hand, I'd hate to have ASA completely change up the uniforms. I've already got over $750 invested in shirts, shorts and pants alone, and I'm not about to spend it all again.
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I didn't mean to imply that looking sharp and professional wasn't important. I lump that into "how an official carries him/herself on the field". My mistake for the lack of clarity. I just don't think that
color plays nearly as important a role as other factors, like the ones you point out yourself. IMO, looking sharp, like good judgement, hustle, and rules knowledge, should be a given for anyone wanting to be good at what we do. But it's only the starting point. As I'm sure you know, dealing with the unexpected and good game management is where our bones are made; regardless of how much your sweaty grey pants and powder blue shirt fail to compliment each other.