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Timely indeed. I am just now hitting the combination that works for me.
"Retired"
60' LL/BR. Too much drama, too little $. I put in my years when my kids were involved. I may take tournament games, but for a neighboring town. (I like the atmosphere of tournament time, and there are a couple of leagues that really take care of the umpires.)
"Current"
2nd yr HS. Still doing JV, but my level of partners has gone up (I am not getting the folks I would block if able). Can't comment on V yet. I feel strongly I can handle V, but unfortunate scheduling has kept me from the annual field clinic, so the big dogs have never seen my work. I have no problem not getting V games until I have been observed a few times.
"Current"
Rec 90' to fill out my schedule until summer ball. Most of the players and coaches I have seen in 60' years past, so my reputation is known so I rarely have on field issues to deal with.
"Current"
Giving a travel ball group a try starting this weekend. I have a tough time thinking it will be any different than what I am already doing. One of my boys played a few years back, so I have a good idea of how things will go.
"Current"
Summer Legion and Legion type leagues. It is my current exposure to the V level players and the few returning college freshmen. The interesting part to me is the HS V level coaches know how to manage a game, and how to deal with umpires. Most of the players get it too. It is much easier to deal with conflicts when both parties know how to handle their half. I also find it easier to not close off and get aloof when I can respect the other participants.
"Future"
Hard to say. I like where I am at, and look forward to getting some Varsity games next season. I have been at it long enough not to get too riled up about partners (not many really want to change). Spectators? There are spectators? I am finding I really enjoy the games where all the participants know their roles.
At just about 48, I am average age to "young" in this area. I have a little more fun than most because I often get to work with my sons. Work conflict is not an issue, so that takes plenty of stress away. While I am not going to get physically better as I age, I do get "smarter". If one of both my boys want to try some other level, I will too, but I suspect I am where I will remain until I decide I am not up to the task.
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