Field Decorum

[mbyron]

Originally posted by GarthB
This thread reminds me of a debate raging in my association.

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All this is prelude to a question to any here who agree with my friend and others who balk at the word "professional" or who dislike an emphasis put on professionalsim.

Exactly what part of this bothers you? Getting better? Looking better? Performing at a higher level? Having less problems with game management?

Tell me, exactly where is the downside to attempting to perform and look professional?

The downside, for some, is the time and effort it takes to achieve professionalism. Plus a few bucks for a new shirt every decade.

But I'm with you, Garth. I distinguish between 'professional' and 'professionalism'. The pittance that most of us receive for games does not qualify us as professional umpires: IMHO, you have to go to school and be hired by PBUC or the equivalent to be a pro ump. It's a question of employment, status, and recognition and not mere compensation.

But every one of us can strive for professionalism, in just the dimensions that Garth mentions: getting better, looking better, performing at a higher level.

Those who complain that such striving takes all the "fun" out of umpiring probably don't understand the thrill of being totally focused on one's activity and doing it very, very well.