Their only.....

[Bandit]

Ok, all umpires. Guys. Gals. Old. Young. I have a simple request. But before I do I must explain myself. I have been lucky enough to umpire for enough time that it has allowed me to reach goals I had only dreamed about when I started. I have worked 4 ASA Nationals. Been able to work on Sunday for every one. I have done more State tournaments than my wife would ever like to be reminded of. I have worked ball from the smallest community league all the way up to Divisuion 1 NCAA college ball. I am lucky enough to have a daughter that has taken a liking to the same sport that I love. I have not totally given up my softball umpiring but I do enjoy help coaching my daughter team. It has actually helped my umpiring I believe. It has helped me see the game from the other side. As hard as most of the umpires I know that work at their side of the sport the girls work just as hard at it from the players side. Finally my request. Umpires. Umpires. Umpires. Please. Please. Please. Never. Never. Never let a coach hear you make the statement. Their only 8 years old. Their only 10 year olds. I don't care what their age is you as an umpire have a responsibility to umpire to the best of your ability not withstanding what the age of the player is. If you make this statement please understand your only making it because you don't have the courage or guts to make the right call. So if not, do your umpire friends and the players a favor. Simply stay off the diamond. You are screwing up a really great game! Rant done.