[WWUmp]

The story in the OP is exactly why LL International developed such a complicated set of rules. We all remember the days when playing LL was not much different than the story in the OP, either when we were playing or when our kids were.

I've been doing LL for years, and I don't agree with the suggestion by some that experienced, qualified umpires should do only upper levels of ball. That's like saying, "oh their just 12 year-olds, who gives a $hit." So umpires who thumb their nose at youth ball can get off their high horse in my opinion.

Rules, and the umpires that enforce them, that make for a consistent and level playing field (pardon the pun) are just as important at the youth level as they are at the MLB level, and in some ways even more so. I assure you that LL rules spell out, in great detail at times, exactly what the responsibilities are for the league board, the coaches, the umpires, and even spectators (parents); and who has what jurisdiction and what authority. And local leagues are not allowed (by rule) to circumvent the rules unless the rules explicitly allow them to do so (usually minor level and below). LLI has made it so (agree with it or not) if there is a disagreement, consult the rules. If the local league ignores the rules then get out of the league, unless you’re good with it.

All that said, I would not have contributed to the ugliness that developed in the OP. I don’t think kids and parents need that, nor is it my job as an umpire to dictate to the board how to run their league. I would have left the game never to return.