Line in the sand

[Dave Hensley]

Originally posted by JRutledge
Do you have any direct references from the NCAA or National Federation on this issue?
[/B]

The NCAA Instructions to Umpires are similar to the guidelines given in the MLB Umpire Manual, but do not specifically address drawing a line. The FED casebook and rulebook refer only in general terms to ejections for unsportsmanlike conduct.

I can confidently confirm that the general understanding that drawing a line on an umpire is a no brainer ejection is shared at the highest levels of the NCAA's umpire hierarchy, as well as at reasonably high levels of the NFHS umpiring administration. This is based on personal, non-published conversations I have had with these individuals, both via email and in face to face visits over hot wings and beers, and you are, of course, free to give it as much or as little credence as you deem appropriate.

You can judge my credibility by what I've posted, just as I've formed a judgment and perception of your own game management skills based on your posts.