This past weekend, I had the opportunity to work my first tournament. The past 4 summers, I had just been working rec ball in my town, but I decided it's time to start taking this to the next level. This is also my first experience calling for completely unfamiliar teams (everything else I've done always involved a hometown team). Did 2 games Friday and 4 on Saturday. It was an absolute blast. Never have I enjoyed myself more on a ballfield than I did for those two days.

I figured it would be a bit rougher seeing as these were teams that were of a slightly higher caliber than I had previously umpired for. However, I think things actually went smoother. I had 2 obstruction calls and 2 catcher's interference calls (those were the only non-ordinary calls) and not once did I have to explain anything. The entire experience was great and in the future, I look forward to doing many more summer tournaments while finishing up school. Thanks for all the help you have all provided me with on this board as it has helped me develop into the blue I am today.

-Josh

I like the season-ending tourneys better as well. Working with generally better umpires is a great way to learn, regardless of your level, and you're right - you get less bizarre plays when the teams have some talent.

Josh, Good luck on future tournaments. There is no buying experience, you just have to go get some. The pressure keeps you on your toes all 7 innings.

??????

Maybe it was a USFA tournament! ;)

U of I blue, where was this tournament and when.....I think Mrs. Kellerumps may have been there......

You coming to Indy
 

When you, kellerumps, coming to your great adopted state to call some games? Would hate to go all summer and not see you both!

Keller-

The tournament was at Manito, a small town in Illinois. It was a 12U (that's what I umpired) and 14 U tourney with about 8 teams in each one. Let me know if she was actually there.

-Josh