[ronald]

1. Wade, there will not be in NCAA mechanics coming into ASA. Mike has explained the reason why and Kevin says if 200 NCAA top flight umps can not get rimming correct, then 39,000 ...

2. Tom, dropped third strike: Umpire's judgment as to whether interference occurred. Did not go into situations with this as felt not right moment and never brought it up again.

3. Mike, getting rid of LBR. Brought this up with Malcolm and got OK as response. Went no where.

4. 2009 umpire manual section does not have the mechanic for a play at home plate where runner misses plate and no tag and what to do. That is an omission and will be back in 2010. It is on page 186 in 2008 rule book.

5. They asked for input on how to improve the camp and drills, so if any of you have any ideas send them to Malcolm and Gene. There email addresses are in the manual. Of course, we gave some ideas but you guys can suggest too.

6. The hammer. No NCAA hammer or whatever it is. "Emily Alexander never taught it or forbid it" (Julie Johnson). A couple high ranking ASA umps did it one game in NCAA tourney and then reverted back to the ASA way cause they still want to do the big ASA, World, etc dances. And no need for a big one on every strike. Certainly not on a pitch down the middle. Verbal is the strong call.

7. On strike three after you have pulled you bow or whatever, square back up so you are ready to move either way.

8. Hell will most likely freeze over before you can go to foul ground for a play at first base on ball hit to right field. Get inside or as a last resort, open up.

9. On force plays at first base (no such thing), follow the DVD. It is the gospel.

10. On swipe tag at first base, one of the instructors told us what he has done. Instead of going towards the line which does nothing for your angle, he moves to his right to get a better view of a tag or no tag.

11. 3 man mechanic. All umps stay in on ball to outfield, ie a ground ball, line shot through the infield. PU yells 3 man.

12. Communication is lacking from NUS staff's perspective. There is not enough of it.

13. Keith Kerney and Scott Thomas are going to World Championship this year. My understanding is the men's.

Questions? If I can answer em, I will.

Ron