Arrogance and Being "Bigger than the Game"

[canadaump6]

Only 55-60 games so far this season, and only 70 games last year? When does your season start and end? I wouldn't worry about re-establishing credibility. Haters are spectators.

Now, I know I was told on here that age doesn't have anything to do with how one is regarded on the field, but I think we all know that age really does have an impact on how you are percieved.

[UmpJM]

Originally Posted by canadaump6

...
Now, I know I was told on here that age doesn't have anything to do with how one is regarded on the field, but I think we all know that age really does have an impact on how you are percieved.

canadaump6,

There are some things in life that one can change or influence by one's efforts and actions and others that one cannot. One's age falls in the latter category.

When a person attributes his lack of personal success, or even degree of satisfaction with "the way things are", to things he cannot change, he reduces his odds of achieving the personal success he desires and, likewise, of improving the way things are.

I believe you and Tuss are practically the same age. I have seen him make substantive contributions to discussions of "difficult" rules discussions on a number of occasions, I have seen him ask questions that indicate a solid understanding of officiating and a genuine desire to improve, and I don't believe I've ever seem him bring up his age as an excuse for any real OR perceived deficiency he might have as an umpire.

Unlike you.

I would concur with your assertion that age has an affect on how one is perceived as an official. I'm "old". I just do my best to deal with it. You're "young". Deal with it. Quit whining about it.

JM

[MrUmpire]

Originally Posted by canadaump6

but I think we all know that age really does have an impact on how you are percieved.

Youth, in and of itself, is not a factor. Youth combined with other attibutes, is a factor.

I have seen very youthful, professionally trained umpires, who carried themselves with confidence, work very difficult games and get no grief from anyone.

I have seen very youthful, very good umpires, who appeared, through body language, facial expression, tone of voice or attitude, cocky, work very difficult games and get hammered by coaches, fans, players, and later, off the field, their partners.

I will add that I have seen the same difference among older umpires.

Blaming perceived slights on one's youthfulness is a smokescreen often used primarily to cover up deficiencies in game management and people skills.