How should I have handled this

[Kevin Finnerty]

Originally Posted by jwwashburn

TO HOKIEUMP:

I did not address it during the game because I thought the chance of them doing anything was remote. They have idiot rats chewing on them all the time. In the heat of the moment, there would be no way for them to distinguish me from an idiot rat.(be quiet Steve! I left the door wide open, I know, I know)

I approached after the game and asked "May I ask you a question?" Only then did I do it. I had hoped to encourage him to look at the book. When I saw that I was dealing with know-it-all punks, I chose to walk away. I was convinced that my approach was correct..I posted here for feedback.

Joe In Missouri

Joe,

You are a respectful and respectable adult, who chose to address two kids in a way that showed them more respect than they have earned, and in response to that, were addressed in a wholly inappropriate and unacceptable way. It is ludicrous to suggest that the codes and norms and traditions and privileges that apply to umpiring at the higher levels also apply to kids calling Little League games. They have earned almost no respect and deserve almost no respect, yet you showed them respect by not publicly embarrassing them and demeaning them.

You're a class guy and you should know that.