Quote:
Originally Posted by IRISHMAFIA
They instituted this method in the local leagues a few years back and it absolutely killed the local association. I don't like be paid on the field for a couple of reasons.
One reason is convenient store clerks get killed for less than $50 and a pack of cigarettes and a lot of the local parks are not well lit and security is non-existant.
Also, there is no incentive for an umpire to come to assn. meetings. And before you say, "well, just fine them", that would be awfully hard since there is no money in escrow (game fees due) from which to draw the fine. And before you say, "then just don't schedule them", and how do you suggest the assn. fulfill it's contract to provide umpires to the local leagues? Even if you could, already strapped associations are not looking to drive umpires away, but retain them and that isn't going to help if you start your season with a statement, "you need to pay us $xxx.xx before you can get a clinic or game".
Tournaments are no big deal, but for the sake of the local associations, I pay out tournament fees at their meetings and those who don't show, do not get paid until after the last association meeting. Not saying it helps that much, but it is my responsibility to aid the local associations in whatever manner I can.
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I agree in part and disagree in part.
Ideally, umpires should be paid through the association and not on the field, security of that situation not being a concern IMO. This serves several other important purposes, from chain of command, to the money trail, to making sure the association and assigner gets their due.
Pay should be promptly, within a week or two, provided to the umpire, who is an independent contractor and deserving of pay for work provided in a timely manner.
Appearance at the association meetings can be a factor in deciding to assign, but should not be a factor in paying them once you choose to assign them; IMO.