knowing when to hang 'em up

[SWFLguy]

I've umpired on and off (mostly on) since 1958 when I called college fraternity intramural games. I've worked with older umpires over the years and with some that needed to retire. Most of the time I figured I would know when no one wanted to work with me, i.e. I was making some very bad calls. That really didn't happen to me, but last season I decided would be my last. I knew I wasn't able to move as quickly to cover my position as I should. Plate work simply exhausted me. So I hung them up. Was a bit odd for me this year not to put my gear into the car and go to games, but so be it. The time had come. A pleasant surprise arrived when the local association awarded me their Distinguished Service Award (for retired umpires). It's been a great ride and I have many many great memories. These days I enjoy the college play offs on TV. Call them like you see them. Keep everything in front of you and have fun.