Attitude and courtesy.

[BuggBob]

Thank you Scott, for the courage to post what I hope many of us have noticed. I hope that we will see this as the wake-up call and return to our more congenial ways. One time in the past I posted a "dumb" question and received several good answers that were both friendly and helpful. I am unsure if I posted that same question now the response would be the same. Yes I know that many of the questions asked have been asked before, I would bet they will be asked again. I think we owe it to ourselves to keep this forum friendly and helpful. I know that I for one stopped reading at McGriff's a long time before it died it's long painful death because of trolls. No more Trolls -- and no more shoe advertisers either.

Bugg

[Bluefoot]

I stopped posting/reading this site for several months after I tired of some of the aforementioned 'attitudes' that I encountered here. This is by far the best site for discussion among umpires, and I have spread the word about it to fellow umps and state officials. But I had to take a long break from here when it became almost as bad (read: not as enjoyable) as dealing with the ignorant, argumentative players from some of the rec (beer) leagues I'd work for. That seems to have curtailed some, since I've been back to this site. This is the best online resource any umpire or sports official could use, and I hope that is never compromised.

[cloverdale]

I truly love this officiating board...came here from the basketball board because I started the task of learning softball and want to get things right...what i learned from the basketball board is that our mentors want us to spend time in the rules book followed up with case book situations...someone said it takes more than calling strikes and balls ,that the responsibility still lies with us to study...some questions seem stupid to us only because our experience has taught us differently...should they make this hard for us...maybe...should we come on this board and ask questions that might seem like no thought or study gone into it...no way...Ive ask some stupid questions and recieved some good advice... book study has at times overwelmed me because it shows no matter what you think you know you dont know...but to show respect to our mentors we should try to cite situations with some rules and book knowledge....thank you all for contributing to this most excellent discussion board.

[wadeintothem]

You make some valid points there S..

I think a minimum level of "parent out of the stands" knowledge is required before you step foot behind the plate.. just out of a level of pride in a job you are doing...

However, your point is well taken.

Oh, and btw.. I dont recall this particular "golden era" where everyone was roses on this board.

[Mountaineer]

I also have noticed some of the harsh comments and the one case you mentioned in particular. I thought at that time that we were becoming the baseball board. I read over there - very, very rarely post - and it doesn't take long to recognize the intollerance that they have for those that aren't as knowledgeable as they would like. One of the things I enjoy about softball is the comaradarie. It's different than in other sports . . . Let's not lose that here.