You can't talk to the batter!

[officialtony]

Rich,
Thanks for the input.
I didn't get the impession that there were many upper level umpires doing anything other than the higest level LLWS games. I did not mean to imply that I was any better than ANY of the umpires doing LLWS ball. My hat is off to them for giving up their time if they choose to. In our area, there weren't a lot of quality umpires working the LLWS games. It must have just worked out that way. No offense intended.
AND . . . I will tell you, I know there are a LOT of umpires that are better than I. My goal is to change that statement over the next few years.
I do not take offense at your reply. On the contrary, I respect your willingness to contribute. I haven't been around long enough to get involved in the trainng involved for LLWS officiating. I am still trying to attend the classes and clinics I need to move up with the state and possibly college levels. There are only so many hours in a day and I am an amateur umpire. I currently aspire to the high school and college ranks.

Thanks again.