[UmpJM]

Well....

This has been an illuminating conversation.

When I was younger, I have worn both a ponytail and an earring - at times, concurrently.

I have never worn either while umpiring a baseball game.

Nor would I hold it against an umpire who did, were I in a position to do so (which I'm not).

I finally watched the linked video. I was pretty impressed with the quality of the training someone was putting on for youth umpires. (Yeah, I thought the feet together thing was pretty wierd, but, overall...)

The gentleman in question, with the earrings and ponytail, seemed to know what he was talking about and had a good "manner" with the kids he was teaching. He was also "professionally dressed", which, to me, is more important than the person's appearance with regard to hair length, facial hair, piercings, or "ink".

Yeah, I could "quibble" with a few things he was teaching, but I bet the kids paid attention to him.

My impression is that he'd be a fun partner to work with.

Now, I wear my hair shorter. If I'm working a game at a HS with a "dress code", I will conform to that code in what I wear driving to the game. That's just how I do it.

I don't think a ponytail should be any more disqualifying than a "buzz cut". In some situations it is.

Recognize the situation and, as in all things, do as you think best.

JM