Handling a Situation, looking for advice

[cviverito]

Originally Posted by umpire99

What I do in situations like this is dump the coach the first time he questions me. That way he will know that I am not taking any of his crap in the future. This works for me.

This may work for you. I don't think I agree that it is the correct thing to do. Questioning close plays are part of the game.

I let them ask. I explain what I had. Then I let them reply. If they disagree with me I say just that. "agree to disagree". If they ask another question I listen. If it's a sensible question I answer that. If it's the same question worded differently I tell them I've already answered that and it's time to move on. Chances are they are not getting a third question. If the persist I warn them that we are done. If they continue...they get the heave-ho.

But honestly...that RARELY happens. In most cases the coach disagrees and starts putting on a show and sputtering insults. In those situations they get tossed right after the insult or whatever it is that is out of line.

Had my first of the year last week. Had the conversation as described above until he shouted "this game is no longer about the players, it's about YOU!". One step over the line sweet Jesus.

But the UmpJM's point - some coaches will test you when they see you for the first time. Handle them professionally and without emotion and you should come out of it feeling pretty good about the end result...whatever it is. And you will be respected for it too.

[ozzy6900]

Personally, I think that you need to realize that you are not doing "kiddie ball" anymore. This is college ball so simply, answer the first couple of questions then tell the "kiddie ball" coach "Okay Bill, it's time to get back to the game.", turn and walk away. The next time he approaches for a piddly complaint, hold up the stop sign and don't allow it.

He played you very well because he saw that you didn't have the gonads to stop him. I know that the NCAA is becoming little girls with all of their "let's huddle", "let's get the call right", "let's hold hands and talk" BS. Stand on your two feet and umpire.

Don't forget to take 2 TUMS and call me in the morning!

[jkumpire]

Ozzy,

You better than that to come up with the "kiddy ball" statement. I'm not going to get into a resume comparing contest with you, but I know how to handle situations, and in this one I made a mistake.

Thanks for your opinion.

[biggravy]

JK you might wanna read that one again. It didn't seem to me he meant anything bad about you with the kiddie ball comment. Seemed he was more referencing the coach. IMO.