Have any of you purchased the "Softball Umpires Manual" from the NCAA Publications catalog? I was just wondering if there was any info in there that makes it worth the $12.50 purchase price.

get it.

Download it
 

Isn't this the same one that is available as a big freakin PDF from several sites?

yah

I got it before it was available as a download. Get it.

If you want to progress in the NCAA ranks then you better get it and Pay for it. I know for a fact, that Jeff, Kathy and Emily track what umpires have purchased it.

It's only $12.50 and then you get free updates. No big deal.

I believe that is a sad commentary if this actually has anything to do with an umpire's evaluation and advancement. Buying a book no more makes an umpire better as not buying it would make them worse.

Definitely worth the price. There are so many things in there that will make you a better umpire even if you don't do college ball. Little details that will make you look better and more professional on the field.

Example - how to eject someone without showing them up, but still projecting that you are in charge.

I just finished my first season of college level ball, and found so much in there that has helped with my HS and ASA games as well.

Is this the manual and update?
 

http://www.ncaa.org/library/rules/20...ire_manual.pdf

Then add in the 2005 update:

http://www.cactusumpires.com/pdf/2005Manual-Updates.pdf

Correct?

Worth the $ and then some. Get it.

It would have been worth it for some of the umpires who are calling the WCWS. Especially the BU in the TN/AZ game. Sorry, but too many blown calls that were not that tough!

DITTO! Downright Orwellian!
Mike,
If I buy a book on the history of Delaware, will you assign me the State Final? Thanks, I'll even polish my belt!

Well, if I was Mike, I would at least require you to also pass this test:

1) How did Delaware get its name?

2) What is the significance of the name Zwaanendael to the state?

3) Why is the Declaration of Independence even more significant to Delaware than to the other original 13 states?

(Send me your answers and I'll grade them for you!)

(And, Mike, I'll bet you thought the only things I was nutty about was softball rules and English grammar!)

[Edited by Dakota on Jun 3rd, 2005 at 04:55 PM]

Very good, but would you consider an umpire who knew 2/3 of the rules to be a passable umpire? ;)

Anyway, the answer to #3 is Delaware used the opportunity to also declare itself independent from Pennsylvania.