Who the HELL are you!!!?
 

Hey all; I have been visiting this forum for 5 years now and 1 question keeps nagging me....who the hell are you?

I have been involved in a couple of rules discussions and I just don't know if the person I'm agreeing or disagreeing with is just another umpire, a National Staff umpire, or perhaps the head of ASA.

So I thought maybe we could have a thread with a little background (read: umpire resume) on each of us...since most profiles don't seem to answer the quetion.

I'll start
 

I am in my 2nd year as an ASA Slow Pitch Umpire for my local rec. league. I attended National School in Olympia, WA in Feb. 2009.

Other than that, my opinions, thoughts, etc. come from watching my dad umpire for about 15 years (Dad umped for 20+ but I only remember about 15 of them).

Thats what you did, not who you are.

Many of us are on facebook... as lame as I originally thought it was (and it is lame), its kinda fun!

That's really not helpful if I don't have your Facebook info.

Does it really matter who the hell any of us are?

If you have been around the forum for five years, you should have a real good idea of which posters know what they are talking about and which ones just blow smoke.

Besides the three (that I know of) posters from my local area, I have only met one other person that posts regularly, never worked a game with him, though.

I think that most, if not all, of the umpires that come to this board are using it as a resource to learn and get better. That being said, I have also come across a lot of umpires in my travels that talk a good game, but don't take it to the field.

Well, apparently it's a matter of security that I not know who's who on this forum.

I have to say though...I find it interesting that there are reply after reply to player, coaches, parents, etc. But noone wants to reply to a fellow umpire. GREAT COMMUNITY!!!

Question withdrawn!

I'm Dave, and I call in central North Carolina. Originally from Wisconsin, but moved here in 2000, which makes me a Yankee (but not a damn Yankee). Been calling 17 years. Good to meet you, brother.

OK

I'm chuck. I've been umpring FPSB since 03. Before that did some little league and other garbage bb. Prior and even after starting umpiring I was a Rec League coach. For 8 or 9 years before that, I was a trainer/medic and some times asst coach for youth football and up to frosh and JV football.

Unlike most of these long time vets, I've only done 2 nationals, but worked sunday in both! phew! I've been awarded the 18A in Hemet next year, for my 3rd. I am a local UIC and board member within our association. My area covers 2 rural counties. My ultimate Goal at this point is the 18G. I start NCAA ball in Nov this year and will give it another run to selections with the ISC for men's FP. I didnt work NFHS last year, but might do a little this year.

I ***** and moan and have my own ideas about mechanics and applications, but when I walk on the field, I'm all ASA and strictly by the book (unless I screw it up :) ).

Thanks and good to meet you Dave & Chuck.

BTW: I forgot to mention, my name is Greg and I'm in the Portland, OR area.

I'm Dave from Crete, Nebraska. Been doing ASA since 1987. NFHS since 1996. I worked our NFHS High School State tourney the past 5 years. Started doing College ball 3 years ago. Learned a lot by reading this forum. Dave

Greg - the point of my previous post was that it really shouldn't matter whether you are in a rules or mechanics discussion with a raw rookie or NUS member or anyone in between. We are all umpires.

We have had this disucussion before, but the level of ball that you call does not necessarily lend you any more credibility as an umpire than the next guy. Some guys think "college ball" is the be all-end all of umpiring, but I have seen some people working college games that I would hesitate to use in the local rec leagues! We have had people working our HS state playoffs that should be doing freshman games.

All I'm trying to say is don't base your opinion of the postings on here on a posters "resume". Take each one, evaluate it on your own terms, use what you can, and toss the rest.

FWIW, I'm Andy, I live in Peoria, AZ. I am a FP only umpire at this time, but looking to start working in some SP tourneys to have a better handle on that side of the game. I have called in our state JC league for the past five years. I have been working ASA and HS ball for the last ten years. I am Vice-President of our local HS association. I have worked two ASA Men's Nationals, with a third to come in September. I have also worked several JO Western Nationals at different age levels.

I am proud of what I've done, but I know I can get better..that's what I'm shooting for!

Ive never been too big on stating where Ive been or what Ive done...but

Im Darrell. I live in Gilbert, Arizona. Ive been umpiring since 1993, fast pitch since 2001..Ive been involved with 11 ASA nationals in some capacity (both fast and slow). I do a little JC ball on the side... DIE HARD ASA lover, despite its multiple and serious faults....

Theres more...but thats enough.....

Man, I must be a slacker. I started the same year as you, but I've only gone to one National so far. ;)

I got lucky with my regional UIC several years back, he pressured me into mastering both the 12" and 16" (sp) game...and in 2001 I learned the FP game...it kinda opens doors when you know both sides of the game. Ive also just been in the right place a few times..

Oh my!

:eek::rolleyes:;):D

Ever try kissing some @$$?

jeez.

Phil's not my type. ;)

Great guy, though. Honored that he gave me a chance.

Andy;
I'm trying hard to improve my game as well. My thread was begun as a way for me to know when I have been given the "official" ruling or just another opinion. It seems pointless to me to continue to raise my arguments why my opinion of a rule is valid and yours isn't, when in-fact, you are part of the rule make (and interpreting) authority.

I would rather know that that is who you are, accept the ruling, and apply it in the future.

If you are another umpire with a different opinion, your thoughts are appreciated but do not represent ASA (in my case).

I learn from all discussions, but I feel some are left open-ended and I, for one, would really appreciate a final "correct" ruling.

If you really care...

I am Larry in Pensacola FL. I've been calling FP since 1993 (but didn't have much time get serious about it until I retired from the Navy and my DD finished her college career). I now call college, HS, ASA, and some local rec ball. 2008 was a great year -- Florida HS finals, Florida JUCO championships, and ASA/USA 12U Nationals.

Unfortunately, I had to sit out 2009 as I had my leg amputated in February. :( Once it (finally) heals, I'll be back on the dirt. :cool:

You make a good point here: the anonymity of the internet. Those of us who have been on the forum a while have gotten to know who's who (for the most part). Unfortunately, we don't have name badges here other than our signatures, and not everyone uses them (or is willing to use them).

Hey, how's that coming along? I remember you mentioning it before. Healing okay?

Thanks for asking Dave. I messed up big time by falling (on the stump) shortly after the amputation. To save the knee, we're now going through an extended process to remove all the crushed bone and tissue and fill in the hole with "granulation tissue." Unfortunately, the amount of radiation that originally caused the amputation has made me very slow to heal. :( But I WILL get there, and I will be back on the field. My goal is to be the first amputee to umpire a FHSAA championship game. :cool:

Well, stay strong, brother. With that positive outlook, you'll get there!

We're all pulling for ya!

I know a cop that lost his leg the exact same way and he is good to go!

You'll get there!

I started umpiring FP in 1983. It was only the 2 year of FP in my city and it must of been Pony or some variance of rules. I remember when there was no circle (at least in this league). I continued on through working HS when I was at JC. I went to LSU and worked HS. It was only their 2nd year of FP. At 21 I had more FP experience than everyone in the Association. Stopped after college 1993. Came back in 2001 to ASA. I have 2 nationals and 2 18 Gold Quals plus a bunch of others.

Somewhat of a new guy but FP only for now. Active duty Army but will retire next year. Hope to land a job that will allow me to increase my tournaments etc. ASA and NFHS (TASO that's Texas talk) are the only two governing bodies I work with.

Attaboy........

Hello Group. My name's Michael and I am an umpire. I have not had a game in 12 days.

While on the field, God grant me the serenity
to accept the calls I cannot change;
courage to change my poor judgment calls when necessary;
and wisdom to know the difference.:)

Well, pretty much the only uber umpire in Irish. The rest of use are just schmucks of varying levels. I would guess probably Altumpsteve is 2nd in the ASA hierarchy here, but still, hes not at the rank a Irish, but hes been around. If you got altumpsteve and irish telling you youre wrong, you can pretty much take it to the bank. Dakota is no slouch. I think Bigslick is pretty good on the NCAA stuff...

If WMB agrees with you, thats another good way to know ur wrong. ;)

The rest of us, we just like to complicate it, if only for something to do.

Steve is overrated........

Don't be jealous over beer.

That stuff wasnt beer. If it hadnt been for the good company, I would have run away......

"Resume'"
 

I'm Brian from Houston, Tx.

I'm in my 20th year. I'm mostly a slow pitch umpire but have several years of fast pitch as well. I've called numerous Nationals and take a crew of umpires to Panama City every Sept. to call the "cry babies" that play adult t-ball. I am a Deputy Umpire in Chief locally (but only because I volunteered, not because of my umpiring.)

OK reply from oversees
 

My name is Sander, I've been calling FP-games in "Nederland" (The Netherlands) since I've turned 15, only for our club. After I've quit playing FP at the age of 29, I've started to call for the dutch federation. First in regional games, after a view years in the top-leagues. I work both in men's FP as in women FP.
Youth-games are not my thing, I've worked only one DH last year, none this season...
Two years ago I earned my ESF-licence. The European way up on the International-stairs. Last summer I went to Bulgary, this summer I don't call International. Thanks to my work, got only 2 weeks vacation. This year I must be allowed to take 45 day's off...
I've worked twice at the IndoorCup in Schiedam. Here I've met and worked with some USA and GB-umpires. Some of those are indeed also registered here... I'm inviting them to introduce themselves:)

I'm Steve - as the user id suggests - but not the Steve that Mike sez is over-rated.:D - at least not in that thread.
I have umpired some baseball in the past, but gave it up this year.
I currently work some youth ball as sanctioned by ASA and PONY. I work high school games under PIAA - using NFHS rules. I work all divisions of NCAA ball. I work some pretty good men's ball under ISC's banner. And I've been fortunate enough to work NPF games in Pennsylvania.
I'm also one of those that Sander referred to. I've worked one of the European Indoor Cup tournaments and will work my second next year. That was a terriffic trip and I'm looking forward to the 2010 version.

My name is Larry and I live in Texas. I am one of the people that has had the good fortune to work with Sander at the infoor cup and call him my friend. I am gradually working myself up to be able to call some upper level youth fastpitch. Maybe oneday I can get to the 16 and 18 level to see the type of ball you guys get to enjoy

Hang on, Bubba. Mike said Steve was underated.

OK, so I've had a few tonight.:o

Let's be clear; Darrell said I was over-rated. This after I seriously kicked his (and his teams') a$$ at the Rules Case Play Jeopardy game at the UIC Clinic. The moderator even tried to give his team extra chances to keep from looking so weak, but my team RULED!!

Go on, Darrell, deny it; Mike is a witness. You owe me beer!! That's why you're out there trying to sell your story!!

Rematch in February 2011 (unless you come to Reno in November). Bring your wallet.

You won because I was kind enough not to try to answer any questions...

Reno it is....

lol@ darrell

The truth comes out.

You homies better hope I dont show up in reno or you all will be buying me beer. Not to mention dinner. And some stuff from the gift shop. And a tshirt.

I understand what you are getting at in trying to understand who is who and who you should listen to and who might be full of it :p

The only reservation that I have is don't take anything anyone says as the final word, without making sure you understand why it is the way it is. Yes some people here have direct lines from the ASA top brass so to speak, and yes they are providing you with the "official" rulings many times. BUT make sure you continue to add clarity to their rulings until you can explain it to a coach if need be. Worst thing in the world you can do is get into a game and say well Irish (or Steve) told me that is the way it is coach so thats just how it goes.

I don't think that is what you would do but just making sure as this is a sore spot for many people with these types of internet boards!

BTW, I'm Dave I've been umpiring ASA for 12 years (did my 5th JO fastpitch national this year), NFHS for 10 years.

That usually works in Georgia, believe it or not!!:eek::D Tell them, rwest; you've seen them back off, or not even come out.

Seriously, Dave's point is well taken. It is one thing to listen when there are several possible answers, and accept the "official"; I know I always try to explain how, why, and precedents that apply. But if you just can't understand why "we" say there is just one right answer, we should be able to give you more.

Personally, I only stop answering when it has been explained ad infinitum, and someone just wants it to be another answer, no matter what the reasoning.

North Carolina is your southern redemption!

:D Now that's funny!

The converse of that are the coaches that come out of the dugout with:

Hey, blue...are you sure about that call? You know Emily (Alexander) said...blah blah blah.....:rolleyes:

Most of the time, what comes out of their mouth is not even close to anything that Emily would say....Steve, do you have this issue as well?

I'm Monty...I am but a peon in the softball umpiring world (maybe that's just the world). Don't pay attention to me, my opinions are irrelevant and not valid. ;)

To quote Popeye, I yam what I yam.

Yeah, I noticed that too. Larry - you've mastered the understatement. Or, maybe those cows - from another thread - dropped something.:D

I have umpired softball for 23 years, but dropped slowpitch about 5 years ago. No authoritative position, but think I have a strong knowledge and understanding of the rules, as well as game management. Work NFHS, ASA, USSSA, PONY, a little NCAA and as I said all fastpitch now.

He may be talking about height. :D

I don't think so; in the upper level youth fastpitch the blue's must wear white paints ;)

OK, I've been lurking around the forum for a while now, and I guess have drank enough tonight to post.

I've umpired softball for 26 years, been lucky enough to work 2 ASA nationals along with several local championships over the years with some fantastic people who have taught me a lot about umpiring.

I've also been fortunate to work some college ball at the postseason level. I've learned a lot there, also.

My name is Smokey. I love this game.

Bout time Smoke.

Welcome, Smokey!

I didn't know that was possible, especially when Fat Tire gets involved. :D

I think you have taught a few people about umpiring yourself, like me for instance!

My daughters think it's cool when we see you on ESPN and I can say, "I know that umpire!"

I echo Rachel's comment. Our friend is doing well. Save me a couple spots for the 2010 evaluation camp that you, KD, WN, and others are going to host. I would love to get input from you guys.

Glad to have you on board, Smokey.

Okay, here's me! I'm Serg from Virginia. I've been umpiring about 20 years, both slow and fast. I've done some ASA nationals, and taken a couple of trips to OKC during the months of February. I'm still a beginner, so I'm just learning. (thanks from me too Smokey!). So, any advise for me is always greatly appreciated.

Serg

Stop putting so much hot sauce on your food that it brings tears to the eyes at everyone at the table!!!:D

Good to have you aboard. Welcome!

Yeah, pass it this way and stop hogging it! :D

Hogging it? You want to experience Shock and Awe, just try taking the hot sauce away from him.

When Serg orders food, they bring out a bowl of Tabasco or Frank's or Louisiana Hot Sauce and ask him how much (enter favorite food item here) he would like in the sauce!

The first thing Serg does before sitting down is scan the neighboring tables to see how many bottles of hot sauce are available.

At the Biltmore, they used to make him sit as far away from the doors as possible that way all the others would have access to an exit in fear that Serg would burst into flames.

Henry Pollard used to have to recertify his firefighting credentials just to be at the same tournament as Sergio.

It is not a coincidence that Global Warming came to the attention of the environmentalist the same time Sergio became old enough to prepare his own food.

The man is a heat freak!!!:eek:

So he won't share, huh?

You have a better shot of Michael Vick being allowed to adopt a dog at the local SPCA.

Hey, what can I say? It's just Mexican catsup to me. Now, if it were jalapeno peppers, that would be a different story. Maybe I will just start carrying them with me everywhere I go.

Hey, I love you, man!!! ;)

This is interesting...

Gary Haning

Joined: Sun Aug 09, 2009 3:38 pm
Posts: 24 Re: Information about Premier Fastpitch Girls Softball
Wade,

I will not argue with you further about the tournament.

If you are going to make outlandish statements about the officials, your brethren, maybe you should look before you leap.

At this moment there are 24 men and woman committed to officiate our tournament. All 24 have NCAA DI post-season experience and they are from 11 states. I specifically stated a couple days ago that umpires are very important. Now of course you will say these umpires will not come as with teams.

I am hardly a Messiah, we have no interest nor intent to be the NGB for softball, you can rant and rave and obscure the real discussion by insulting me or the others who are working to make this a success but that probably won't get you your spot at Gold Nationals that you covet and it is just your opinion.


Thu Aug 20, 2009 12:09 am


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


ocbxball


Joined: Mon Aug 17, 2009 8:36 pm
Posts: 6 Re: Information about Premier Fastpitch Girls Softball

WOW (WADE) Chuck....open mouth...insert foot??

Will you ever have anything useful to offer again??

After all...it's only your reputation and credibility!!

Keep proving the point, thank you.

There was no "arguing", just an alternative opinion offered on an open message board. Apparently, Mr. Haning and minions take offense to anyone voicing an opinion that doesn't suit them. Great country, America! Freedom of speech is alive and well as long as you fall in line and voice it as a group. Where is Frank Burns when you need him?

The only thing screwed up here is Wade doesn't know Minnesota from Missouri, the Show Me State AND luvthegame posted this under the wrong thread!!!

[QUOTE]Its hard to keep track when youre spewing bull**** in all directions....

I just realized that we all have used only our first names in this post. But, without a little research, none of us knows what the last names are of the posters.

Hmm. So much for being open.

Pretty intentional. We umpires are quite the distrusting group when it comes to outsiders. ;)

Not to mention the fact that not everyone who comes here is an umpire, and not everyone's intentions are good. We get the occasional troublemaker here who I'm sure would love to make a phone call higher up within our respective organizations just to try to cause problems. In that respect, relative anonymity is a wonderful thing.

We're much more open with each other with our identities once we trust each other, though. Since you've already got someone here who vouches for you (and is well-respected), you've got my trust, brother.

My bad.

Based on this level of anonimity, I retract the fact that I am Smokey.

I am Paul, a rec ball umpire from Anaheim, CA.

Who enjoys his barley pop.



Occasionally.

Smoke...............damn.................Paul

Crap, I thought you were a bear that did PSAs! :D

Just kidding...

NO! C'mon, that wouldn't happen, would it? :rolleyes:

Well, for me it's very simple! Sander is a dutch name, short from Alexander. No other umpire in the Netherlands has my name, so my familyname is irrelevant! For as far as I know there ain't no other "Sander" umpiring in Europe...:cool:

I think you enjoy other's people barley pop MUCH more! :D ;) :p

Ya know, the only thing that may be as important (if not more important) as the brand of beer you drink, is who is buying it.

OP (other people's) beer has a great taste. Of course, Darrell will disagree (but he drank it!!).

I've always said the best beer is "Ice, Cold, Free".

I may be a beer snob....but Im not crazy.....

Hey, I'd drink to that.:D

There I go, draggin another umpire discussion into beer debates again. Almost makes me wanna put the stein down.

Almost.

Smokey

Yeah, "ALMOST" is what it is before it is empty.