[PeteBooth]

Sriker started a topic but IMO got "wrapped up" in being upset with Carl and the article at officiating.com. rather then expressing his own views on the subject matter so I thought I would start the topic to get YOUR views or opinions on "Paid vs. Volunteer" and start a good discussion.

I will list mine.

1. Generally speaking paid umpires are more committed. Example; I assigned at my local LL association for 3 years and I spent more time on the phone then on the field. There are no REAL Penalties when a volunteer doesn't show.

2. Being "paid" allows me to do more games because the Family shares in it. By sharing in it I mean:

A. Part of the money goes into new equipment
B. Take the family on a nice vacation
C. Take the Wife, Significant other, etc. out to dinner after one of those hot days at the field.

All of the above does not come out of the "Regular" Household money.

3. Again generally speaking Paid umpires are more trained then volunteers. I realize this doesn't apply to all volunteers or all paid umpires but there is a correlation between one's pocket book and ability to attend a clinic. When you get paid, you can afford to attend a nice clinic without taking money out of the household especially in today's climate.

So there is a lsit at least to start.

What's yours?

Pete Booth