Dilemma

[T-Rav]

I'm in a bit of a pickle here. So far I've only umpired up to 18U Big League games and a few 16u travel tournaments, now I got a call from an assigner whom I do not know but I was recommended to him by an umpire who works allot of games with him. He wants me to do some HS varsity summer ball and college summer ball. The problem is, I'm in college....

I need the money, which he says they pay well, $55 cash at plate for HS and $65 for college. But I don't want to advance too early to the higher levels especially when I'm barely older or if not the same age as the players.

The assigner will work with me but he clearly told me on the phone that he needs umpires, he can't find many to cover his games or they are booked somewhere else. BTW... there are not many youth(14u,12u, 10u) games around here, its pretty much all upper level games. I'm pretty ready to do the HS games, as I'm joining the HS association this year, but the college games are what have me concerned.

So what do you think I should do? :shrug:

[scrounge]

I wouldn't worry it about it much. 16U travel teams (and parents) are probably bigger jackwagons than anything you'll run into for HS summer ball. So you're young....be confident without being a Napoleon, know your rules, keep good timing and you'll be fine.

Actually, breaking into HS varsity and college ball in the summer is prob better than doing it in the reg season. Go for it.

[Dragon29]

I'd change the name of your post from 'Dilemma' to 'Opportunity'

Grab the HS stuff; it's what you want to do anyway . . . and there's no reason for you to not take a stab at the college ball. As Scrounge pointed out, it's the perfect environment in which to learn, even if it goes horribly wrong (which it probably will not)

[spiritump]

work the games--HS should be no problem--as for college start on the bases--after a game or two you will get use to the speed of the game then try the dish--work hard and good luck

[ring-em-up12]

I'm in the same situation I called HS ball this past season, and I am going to try and dig into college ball this year a little. I'm really excited for the opportunity. Remember it's all about who you know and who knows you, so get your name out there, and bigger and better opportunities will come your way.

[Guest]

Don't worry about age. The players won't care if you're good enough. I did my first 21U game when I was 15 and first Senior game when I was 18. I was constantly worried someone would question my age and my presence, but it never came.

BUT

When a team doesn't like a call, EXPECT them to go straight to the age card. It's nothing personal, just the most convenient thing their little brains can wrap their head around to argue. In my experience, if they can think of nothing better to argue, they're horseSH*# anyway. The last time someone did this, I laughed at them. Literally. The majority of umpires starting in MiLB are 19-25ish.

Also, expect to be tested by coaches who will see your lack of grey hair as definite inexperience and potential for manipulation. Don't take their crap, dump them if they cross the line, and don't worry if you have more than a few ejections right away.

It's an amusing concept. They want the best umpires but whenever an assignor tries to bring in some fresh new and good blood, they "need" to be tested right away.

Don't say anything to your assignor about being uncomfortable with college ball until you get your schedule. If he's smart, you'll get a few base games first to get your feet wet, then at least one plate with someone of high experience as your partner who will have your back in case anyone tries to come at you. If this isn't the case and it doesn't feel right to you, say something.

Here's the big one: at the end of the day, any time I've debuted at a new level, I found I had built that level of play up more in my mind, and was instantly at ease. Once the first pitch is thrown, it is still just a ball game.

[Called3rdStrike]

I'm in the same exact position as you. I do 18u tournaments on the regular and my old high schools weekday summer all games. If you've played the game and been around the game the speed isn't going to be a big deal. You know a strike when it's a strike. Just look professional and be consistent is all they ask for in the summer anyways.

[Jocko]

I'm in the same situation I called HS ball this past season, and I am going to try and dig into college ball this year a little. I'm really excited for the opportunity. Remember it's all about who you know and who knows you, so get your name out there, and bigger and better opportunities will come your way.

So who is it you know that's taking you to the next level ;)

[Jocko]

Relax. It's easier to call better ball. Things that are supposed to happen happen. You can anticipate the play better because they do what theyre supposed to do. College coaches will actually tell you "I want a tight zone" or "give me some corners" before the games so they can teach pitchers and hitters. Summer ball is instructional. For them AND you. Run with it. Above all else, be courteous, consistent, and professional. The rest falls into place.

[ring-em-up12]

I'm in the same situation I called HS ball this past season, and I am going to try and dig into college ball this year a little. I'm really excited for the opportunity. Remember it's all about who you know and who knows you, so get your name out there, and bigger and better opportunities will come your way.

So who is it you know that's taking you to the next level

This guy he knows all the rules but he dosent know how to apply them. Good umpire knowledge just a bad umpire all around. Zing:) haha. You probly don't know him.

[Umpire in Chief]

Go for it take the games and challenge yourself.

[zm1283]

Unless they're in one of the bigger collegiate leagues, college summer leagues are pretty laid back for the most part. Just go work it and have fun. The worst that can happen is that you find out you need a little more experience before you move up.

[noumpere]

College coaches will actually tell you "I want a tight zone" or "give me some corners" before the games so they can teach pitchers and hitters.

That never happens around here and frankly id ignore it if it was said. An exception would be if it was a intrasquad scrimmage or something but if its a league then call the zome appropriate for the league.