Journals

[jpaco54]

A few of you have mentioned keeping journals....can you expand on that please? I have a notebook where I have placed game situations that I missed a call or something new I learned in a game, mostly so I dont forget and learn from the experience. Is that what you all use your journals for? I am just looking for some tips on helping me grow as an ump. Thanks in advance for any insight. jpaco

[zm1283]

I've thought about doing this recently as well. I have had several situations that have come up this year that I would like to keep track of in case they come up again later. What else do some of you guys keep in yours?

[Umpire in Chief]

In my written journal I keep situations good or bad, my partner, what my strengths weaknesses and just any thoughts that come to my mind.

[BT_Blue]

I started mine at the request of a senior umpire friend of mine and from Warren's recommendations. I did pretty well during the college season but fell off after I lost my job and the end of the college season. Im hoping to try and start it back up next year after the move.

[nolanadair]

While that seems that a great idea, I just don't see myself doing that every single game. I think that I would be too tired after some games and would forget other games. But after looking at some of the posts to this thread, I think that I will try keeping a journal.

[BT_Blue]

Try and do it with in 24 hours after the end of the game. That is about the point when I begin to forget what I wanted to write down or what happened.

[nolanadair]

thanks a bunch. I will try that.

[Stan W.]

I have a columnar ledger that use as a game journal. I have headings across the top for date, team, location, fee, fee paid, results, comments, partner and lastly plate or base. My game journal/ledger is a learning tool, game diary, appointment book and financial tool.

I have recorded every game for the last 15 years. In the comments section I do a very self critical evaluation of my performance or note any tricky rule or game situation to review later with my rules reference library. I use the ledger to keep me on track with the business side of my avocation.

I enter the amount paid when received. It allows me to keep track of my fees that are outstanding. For those of you who volunteer, you could omit this section. I do try and write my comments in a timely fashion...I try and do it that night. I dont want to forget anything.....

[Jeff C.]

I kept a journal this past year. Nothing overly analytical, just some points on whom my partner was, any improvements I made in my game, any unusual situations that may have occured. I also wrote down any helpful criticism that my partner may have had. It helped me tremendously. I tried to write the info down within 24 hrs. while it was still fresh. I'm going to do this for my volleyball officiating also (first year).

[kn4xp]

I keep a journal of my games. I include game, date, teams, score, my partner, the position I worked. I also include good points and areas that need improvement. I can reflect back and see where I am improving. I recommend a journal for umpires as a tool to help you improve.