School question

[Anonymous67]

Originally Posted by HokieUmp

IfSo my question is: are there guys like me there? Not the ones that are definitely pro-ball material, or ones that could be pro-ball material with some more seasoning, or those that THINK they're pro-ball material, but just aren't. I mean, guys that know they're not heading for Yankee Stadium without a ticket, who want get better at the level they're at, and may aspire to college/summer league ball at some point (or whatever my association here takes on)? More importantly, are there enough of that type so that I won't feel isolated?

I want to learn from the best out there, since the opportunity is presenting itself, and am willing to pay for that teaching. But I also don't want to be the one AV nerd amongst all the stud athletes, either.

If there's anyone that's been to the pro schools, from any perspective, that would like to address what I wrote, please feel free to chime in.

Thanks!

I was in my late 30's when I attended. I went to be a better umpire and had no desire for a job.

I became a better umpire and worked occasionally as a fill in in long season A.

If you have the time and resources to go, go.

[DG]

5 weeks is a bit much for someone 43 and not interested in a pro job. The cost and and time away from work (assuming you work) will make this very expensive.

Take a weekend clinic, or 4-5 day clinic like Evans has and you will be a better "local" umpire.

If you are wealthy enough you don't need to work, and are interested in a physical and mental challenge, then take basic law enforcement training (BLET), or join a branch of the armed services (Army, Navy, etc.), if they will have you at 43.

[HokieUmp]

Originally Posted by DG

5 weeks is a bit much for someone 43 and not interested in a pro job. The cost and and time away from work (assuming you work) will make this very expensive.

Oh, don't I know it. And yes, I work - don't want to, but have to. But I have a serious amount of leave as a benefit to my 6+ years overseas, so this has been the plan to use it. It's kind of a 'perfect storm,' timing-wise.

Originally Posted by DG

If you are wealthy enough you don't need to work, and are interested in a physical and mental challenge, then take basic law enforcement training (BLET), or join a branch of the armed services (Army, Navy, etc.), if they will have you at 43.

Thanks, but no thanks. My wife is active duty USAF, so we're doing our part there. And I'm not interested in the pay levels at the entry stages of the military or police forces - sort of why a pro umpire job isn't as appealing. (Again, beyond the wildest thoughts it could happen.)