Off-season suggestions?

[Manny A]

Originally Posted by rbmartin

Not a lot of Umpireing gigs (FED and Babe Ruth) here in the Mid-West until next spring. Other than obviously studying rule books and case books, I'd like some suggestions for this fall/winter on how to improve my game (ie. specific books, video, physical training etc).

You don't have any rec leagues in your area that do fall ball, such as Little League?

Every one of our local LL programs conduct some sort of fall ball to train and develop the kids in what's supposed to be a non-competitive environment, but inevitably some games turn into anything but. It's a great opportunity for veteran umpires to help new volunteer umpires learn the game, and to see things that will test their rules knowledge.

[jdmara]

Contact a JUCO/NAIA/DIV III conference officials coordinator and work some of their fall showcases or fall leagues. You can get evaluated and possibly move up to college baseball (if you want).

-Josh