Another Newbie Checking In

[RookieUmp]

Hello,

My name is Rick and I am brand new to Umpiring and this forum. I am located in Wisconsin and this year will only be working softball games (Both NFHS and ASA). I'm studying hard, attending my meetings and working the assignors for work, on top of what my association is doing for me. I joined the forum because I enjoy talking about officiating games. I like the connections and "friends" made with common interests. I'll be trolling the boards, asking questions, and offering up scenarios that I come across for evaluation by more experienced posters.

Thanks for the forum and the opportunity to learn even more here.

 

[mstaylor]

Welcome and feel free to ask questions. I suggest making sure you say your sitchs are from softball. Many times the mechanics translate, and we have some good softball guys here, but if the guys aren't aware it isn't always baseball you may get bad answers. 

[GreyhoundAggie]

Welcome to the brotherhood. And yes, we are a gang of sorts.

 

[jmpnjmy]

Welcome

[JaxRolo]

Softball??? You must be an older Umpire!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Just Kidding! Welcome!

[RookieUmp]

Thanks guys for the welcome.

Yes, softball.....I am prepared to take s**t from the baseball guys. Just worked out that way this year, and I really didn't want to try to get straight on two different sets of rules. Maybe next year.

I suspect that the majority of my posts will be in the softball section, but general questions (Equipment, dealing with coaches, etc.) will likely be part of my postings as well. I really just hope I don't suck. I know the rules, I study every day, I understand lineup cards and how to manage them....I have no plate experience, and that makes me VERY nervous.

[FearNot]

Congrats & welcome!!

[Dannytheman]

Welcome. Make yourself at home and enjoy the commraderie. We are happy to have you.

[Umpire in Chief]

Welcome.

 

Once you get a few plate jobs under your belt the majority of your nervousness will go away. 

[RookieUmp]

Quick question.

I just accepted two HS freshman games for May. These are my first HS games I've scheduled, as I got a late start. Is it appropriate to contact the other umpire that is scheduled with me? What's the protocol there?

I think UIC is right, I won't be nervous after a game or two, but having NEVER stood behind the plate, that's intimidating to me. I'd prefer to have some plate time under my belt.

[plateumpire]

Hi, I am also new.

[yawetag]

Quick question.

I just accepted two HS freshman games for May. These are my first HS games I've scheduled, as I got a late start. Is it appropriate to contact the other umpire that is scheduled with me? What's the protocol there?

I think UIC is right, I won't be nervous after a game or two, but having NEVER stood behind the plate, that's intimidating to me. I'd prefer to have some plate time under my belt.

 

You should call your partner the night before. You'll discuss who's working what position, where you'll meet, and at what time.

[Jocko]

Quick question.I just accepted two HS freshman games for May. These are my first HS games I've scheduled, as I got a late start. Is it appropriate to contact the other umpire that is scheduled with me? What's the protocol there?I think UIC is right, I won't be nervous after a game or two, but having NEVER stood behind the plate, that's intimidating to me. I'd prefer to have some plate time under my belt.

Not only is it appropriate, it's recommended. You should have all the details prearranged down to where you're gonna park. Always park together. You'll have only to get dressed and pregame.

As far as plate work, ssssssssllllllllllloooooooooowwwwwwwwwwwwww. Your tendency will be to rush. Slow down and then when you think you're just right, slow down some more. You know what a strike is. Take each pitch as it comess. Don't anticipate. And slow down. Relax, let the plays happen around you, and call your game. Remember to breathe. Noone is there to see you. Relax and try to be invisible. When you hear chirping outside the fence, and you will, DO NOT REACT. Ignore it like you didn't hear it at all. And most importantly..... SLOW DOWN