TASO State Meeting.

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally posted by Skahtboi
Mike, around here, for no charge and a less than one hour drive to attend a good clinic, I would attend in a heartbeat. I don't know why you have problems getting folks to attend.

Apathy. The lack of available nationals to umpires in this area.

I've got a great commissioner that will get me a host exchange in a heartbeat if possible. Since I've been the UIC, I have not had any less than 5 umpires go to a NC/NT in any one year.

However, even when I get them, I still have a hard time filling the bill because people just don't work at it. Some don't want to "waste" the money going to a National School. Others believe that going to a NC/NT is a reward for longevity or just helping out. Forget following the prescribed mechanics, making the right calls, hustling during all games, etc.

This year I've been offered an unlimited number of slots in a men's SP national because the host is aware of the reputation of umpires from this area and has told me that he knows he will get quality.

That's fine and dandy, but I don't have, but a handful of umpires who I can have the confidence to do the job. Our area has a good rep, why would I send an umpire who may be questionable JUST to send them to a national?

Sorry for the rant.