Just to expand on Mike's response.

ASA pays for all the association UIC's to attend. The basic premise is to attempt to develop consistency in interpretation, understanding, and to assist in training in multiple areas (to include recruitment, retainage, technology advances, and more). They also invite anyone the associations believe would benefit at this level; Zone, District, Deputy, Training Directors, whatever the applicable title.

On a real world level, this is a tremendous opportunity to meet and learn from the ASA movers and shakers; and some from outside ASA that come to learn from their counterparts. I know that ISC, ISF, NFHS, and other organizations have participated in the past; I know for a fact that the Softball Canada UIC, the ISF Director of Umpires, and the ESF (European Softball Federation) Director of Umpires plan to attend this year, as each has told me that personally.

So, it is ideal for anyone that can get local approval to learn from some of the best, not just the ASA National Staff. Granted that some will not benefit, as their direction isn't ASA. But, many more than just the UIC's can share the knowledge, and the contacts you can develop.

Now you're just bragging ;)

This year, all, but one of my staff is attending, so when the clinics are conducted, the information is as fresh and direct as an umpire can get.

Hey, Sergio, haven't heard from you. Is the old Tabasco bottle visiting the Biltmore?

So....let me get this straight. I can pay my money and go of my own accord, just to get information directly from the proverbial "horse's mouth," without being recommended or sent by my UIC or local organization?????

Then why haven't I been doing this all along?

Is there anything else y'all have been keeping from me?

Yes, we are also out of coffee.

(it's a bit late, but that's for you, Mr. Nielsen)

Actually, your application is supposed to be endorsed by your ASA Commissioner.

BTW, who is bringing the Boone's Farm? Slick?

Slick, Love the 'airplane' reference. See ya' in Shippensburg. I'll be watching your boiys kick some butt on Friday in Hampton

Hey, I stated earlier in this thread I was in Plant City for the ISF Youth World Cup. So, that is several of those from Canada and Europe (Netherlands, actually) that stated they planned to attend. I wasn't suggesting that I have regular conversations with them.

They still using that toolshed for an umpire dressing room?

Oh yes, there will be Boone's.

I guess they are a pretty good squad, number two nationally I think. That isn't one of the sports I follow here in the Valley.

Boone's? Dear god, you can't get drunk off Boone's. Not even a buzz. Just doesn't happen...

Believe me, I've tried! :D

Boone's is sort of an inside joke at the meeting. A few years ago, a couple of jags* from Region 3 brought Boone's** to the dinner. They dressed it up real nice, using their ice buckets and serving with the cloth napkins. It morphed into a "pass around toast" at the Region 3 table(s) and anyone else who sits in the proximity of Region 3 (I think people get there early to avoid such situations). The display at the last dinner is the leading factor in the choice of the hospitality hosts this year :D.

*Pittsburgh (i.e Da'burg) slang, short for "jag off", someone who is a goofball
**Boone's is no longer the "wine" we remember from our teen years. It is now a "malt beverage" at about 6% alcohol (which is better than that 3.2% crap in OK)

Yes, me and my old Tabasco bottle are visiting the Biltmore this year. Will send in my application next Monday since I need my commissioner to sign it this weekend. And you're right, I'm not a UIC, but I always enjoy the comradeship amongst ya'll. So, hold a place for me at Chisholms!

Serg

Tell Henry I'll sign it for ya :D

Yep, unless you are in the stadium. I drove (it's only 500 miles and 7 hours for me), so I could work out of the back of my car and avoid the cattle call van trips.