Attending 1st ASA Nat'l. School

[bigsig]

I just signed up to attend an ASA National Umpire School. This is my first. I’d like to get some feedback and ideas from those of you who have attended in the past.
Things like:
How do I make the most of it?
Anything special I should know or work on before hand?
What to bring; ie, equipment, uniforms, etc?
What should I expect?

Any and all advice will be appreciated. I’m looking to get better
Thanks!

[AtlUmpSteve]

IMO, the best advice I can give you is try everything the way they recommend it; even if (and particularly if) that isn't the way you were taught previously, or how you do it, or what is done in your area. Try that different plate mechanic, that different starting position on the bases. For at the length of the 2 day school, do it the way they suggest. Then try it in your first games afterwards. If you can't get comfortable with it, then at least you tried. Too many go and argue with the clinicians, instead of making an open effort to improve.

Second piece of advice, don't hang out with those who will not try, or who will have a second conversation going while the clinicians are trying to help you (and others). There is a lot to be learned from watching them talk and work with others, so pay attention. You are paying them to help you; not to listen to the same group of BS'ers you can hear any time.

You should receive a camp shirt; come in ASA uniform, expect to change shirts. Be prepared to be outside if it is cold; also have indoor (gym) shoes, in case it is too cold, or oterwise inclement weather. The only equipment you should need is your mask; the plate drills normally require it.

Try to listen and absorb as much advice and direction as possible. Don't decide what to discard or ignore at that point; the techniques they teach are proven to be effective for the majority.

[Skahtboi]

Originally Posted by AtlUmpSteve

You should receive a camp shirt; come in ASA uniform, expect to change shirts. Be prepared to be outside if it is cold; also have indoor (gym) shoes, in case it is too cold, or oterwise inclement weather. The only equipment you should need is your mask; the plate drills normally require it.

And to add to that, make sure that if you are a member of an ASA association that wears gray pants, that you get the navy blue pants for this school. THAT is the uniform they will be wearing.

[Steve M]

Big or is it Sig,

In addition to what Steve and Scott said - make sure that you attend the informal adult beverage get together. I found that the discussions that went on in that gathering were at least as benficial as the class & clinic work. Where else can you sit with several members of the NUS and probably a couple of state uics - to say nothing of the several district uic's.

[IRISHMAFIA]

A lot of good advice. Have an indicator and don't forget an ASA hat.

Even if not mentioned, carrying an indicator is a plus. I've even seen some carry a brush. Whatever you carry, make sure is it umpire equipment (i.e., not a whisk broom).

Even if you live down the block from the hotel, get a room. You may get as much from out of a bull session at the hotel as you may in the school. BSing is fine, but remember, some of these guys may have already been down the road you are attempting to travel.

OTOH, do not allow yourself to lose interest or be distracted when the inevitable rookie questions are asked. I can just about guarantee that someone will ask something and your first thought will be, "and this guy is an umpire?"

Don't worry about what the other guy does or think. As Steve noted, like in a tournament, take your direction and information from those who are there to help you.

Enjoy.

[bigsig]

Thanks to all of you for very sound advice. You've been most helpful.

Have a wonderful holiday!!