compliment during the game...

[ozzy6900]

Don't take this the wrong way. Everyone likes compliments about their work but to tell the truth, if I get a compliment, I just say "Thanks, coach" and leave it at that. The fans and the coaches can compliment me all they want, they are just happy that a call went their way or something like that.

Now, my partner has been watching and covering my butt for 7 to 9 innings and I've done the same for him. We are the only ones that really know what is expected of an umpire. We critique each other (hopefully) and maybe even stop for a bite to eat. Then he/she goes home and I am left to the worst critic of all - me! And I don't hand out compliments too easily - not even to myself!