When do we "jump in"

[tidefanintenn]

Ace,

I have heard the comments about "He is strict on the rules" by several officials around the parks I call at. I do create some static with a few coaches that think they are above the rules, but I enforce them with all. I usually mention to them inpassing at first, and then I warn if they do not catch the hint. Most coaches step it up once they realize I will enforce the rules. One such example is the wearing of a catcher's mask and helmet when warming up a pitcher. Dixie youth says that anyone warming up a pitcher must wear one. That includes coaches. I catch a little flack for it until I ask them if they would like to spend 6 weeks sipping through a straw after the pitch shorthops up into their jaw.

[kylejt]

I think it comes with experience. Aside from safety, I try to roll in like a local, as opposed to the local Gestapo. If you wish to dial things up, do so slowly, gently and low keyed. If it's a new location, I'll try to get the lay of the land, and see how lax the enforcement is.

Tomorrow, I'm working a state championship game, and we're all going to be new to each other. So our crew gets to set the tempo, and we're going to set the bar pretty high. There's a time and a place for cracking the whip, and we'll get our chance tomorrow. This game is pretty far down the line though, and I'm sure these guys have seen some pretty good crews. So ours won't be any shock to anyone.