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Now that the new year is nearly here (or already is for the many in warmer climates), I thought some might get a kick out of this article I wrote last year shortly after my first game. It's a lighthearted but completely true story of my first experiences, one that might bring a smile to vets and help some fellow newbies! Now, 108 games later, it's kinda neat to reflect back on it. http://voices.yahoo.com/why-will-never-yell-umpire-8270297.html?cat=14

When I removed instep plate from the my wilson shin guards, I was able to leave the rivets in place. From the back, I drilled a small pilot hole down the middle of the rivet. I then used a larger bit to remove enough of the backside of the rivet so that I could pry the small washer off. Once the washer is off, the strap for the instep plate lifts right off. I used mill file to remove the sharp edges off the remaining part of the rivet, and then a ball pein hammer to round it over so the rivet would stay in place. The key to drilling the rivet is to go slow and steady with medium pressure. That will keep the heat down and should prevent any melting.

That's what I'm here for!! :)