as you all know, I'm a rookie. I was asked to partner up w/ a 2 year reff, and am debating it. What qualities should I look for in a partner, and when should I partner up? Thanks for the input,

Doug

A rookie and a sophomre partnered. What is going through your assignor's (or whoever thought this up) mind. A rookie and soph should be put with veteran umpires.

Bob

My question is, do you want to learn how to umpire correctly, or just to get by? If you're really interested in learning, ask your assignor or booking agent to put you with veteran umpires. Don't stay with the same one, either!
Of course in some associations, a 2 year man might be a veteran!! There's one in my assocation, the person sucked up real good, got to call an ASA 'B' National the 1st year,
and the 2nd year was asked to call college ball AND another National!! This person's head is so big now in the third year that their head won't fit through the door. Don't put me with this type of umpire--ever!

Sounds to me like you prefer the pay-your-dues seniority system to a real merit-based system, Elaine.

:D Just kidding... don't kill me...

Doug,
Elaine's got some really good points, make sure you check them. I'm all for merit "promotions" and even pushing some ahead a level when they've shown enough. But I agree that a rookie with a soph is not allowing either of you what you need. I try to make sure that I take a few games each season with some inexperienced folks and we usually have longer pre & post game meetings. I also prefer to have a number of partners throughout the seasons, but come playoff time, I not only want someone I know, I want someone who is ready to be there. I'd be opposed to the two of you being regular partners.

I have no problem with merit if it is deserved. But, sucking up to the big boys is a definite no-no in my book.
But, on the big games, I want a partner that I know I can trust to call correctly, move correctly and use the proper mechanics.
However, up until a few years ago, we all here in Atlanta had to 'pay our dues', but now---who knows.

Elaine:

Here in North Texas we pay our dues every year! They won't assign us games or certify us until we do! :D

Scott

(You know that I am just yanking your chain a little, doncha?!) ;)

Speaking of dues, we've got to be paid a year in advance for renewals. So, I'll get a bill in June for next year.

thanks a lot