Umpire Hospitality at ASA Nationals

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by Dholloway1962

I was wondering if any of you might know the answer to this. When an ASA National is held who is responsible for the hospitality at the Umpire's Tent/Room at the ballpark.

Is that cost paid by a local Umpire Association, the State ASA Umpire Association, or is that part of the bidding process by the Softball Park/Association that hosts the National? A combination of the above?

Perhaps some of you that have hosted a tournament could or some of you that have attended a National that know the answer could respond.

Thanks

I guess it depends on what you consider "hospitality".

According to the ASA Code, the bidding agency is responsible to house and feed the umpires during scheduled games. If they are housed in a hotel with a breakfast, then they must provide lunch and dinner; otherwise, they must provide 3 meals a day when games are played.

The host is also responsible to provide an umpire "party" for the umpire awards of certificates, coins, etc. There is no minimum standard, although that usually includes a meal (pizza, perhaps, if Saturday night, or a breakfast if Sunday morning before games).

Generally, if there is a "hospitality" after games (at a hotel suite, for example, with adult beverages and snacks), that is typically hosted by the local umpire association (to eliminate liability for the host agency). Some host agencies also include snacks and soft drinks for this, and only expect the host umpire association to provide the adult beverages they can (or should) not.

As an umpire coordinator at several nationals, and having attended more than a few (21), if you want to ask me a more specific question or questions in a private message, feel free. You can also tell the reticent host that their level of support will absolutely be reported and be considered in any future efforts to host an ASA National.