you refused to get the call right, you %&^*$#@

[GarthB]

I have been to NCAA clinics. I have heard the instructions, usually read with a wink and a nod.

To paraphrase one of the few remaining writers at Off.com worht reading, Peter Osborne, work as your local association wants you to work. Another tidbit from Peter also applies: Work as you see the big dogs work.

If I went up, unsolicted, to any umpire in the group that handles D-1, D-iii and JUCO in this area and told him I saw his play better than he did, that would be my last college game.

If you work for an association that truly expects that kind of behavior, fine. Go for it.

Despite the NCAA Committee's recommendation, I know of no NCAA umpire who work that way.

Note to Carl: I was referring to Rollie's "Hey, you want to know what I saw...go ahead and ask me" story of a few months back. I am not familiar with Blaine's suggestion that umpires should always approach their partners unsolicited, but now that he's become a rat, anything's possible. I'll have to check.