before we start (an equal opportunity post...)

[kylejt]

Everyone has a different reason why they gear up.

My mission is to make my local LL the best possible. As UIC, it's my job to see the umpires, administrators AND coaches are as educated and skilled as I can make them. Through rules knowledge and situational awareness, I can prepare the league for game days to the best of my ability.

We're not a big league, but we have won a lot of titles lately. We won the consolation game against the Japanese in 2005, and a state title in 2007. We're now competitive at every level. I've sent a bunch of kids, for free, to the one week school in San Bernadino. I turn away umpires, and send them to other leagues. I put four man, volunteer crews on regular season games. I put a TON of my umpires in post season games. (That was my mission for this past season).

So, did I do it for the kids? Partly. But mostly for the local league and myself. I take a lot of pride in what we've done over the past few years.

Back to the OP (imagine that!). I'd get the bucket sitter in the dugout, and have a short conversation with my partner. I'm a pretty forceful fellow when I need to be, and this wouldn't be a problem.