What to do?

[LMSANS]

This situation was described to me by a parent that knows I'm an umpire to see how it should be handled:

HS V team playing badly in a scrimmage, HC goes into what can only be described as a temper tantrum in the dugout. Equipment being tossed, F-bombs leading a whole lot of profanity. I believe it's happening between innings.

My response, I look over to make sure that there are no safety issues and the game is not delayed. V and above I'm not stepping in unless its a safety issue. Lower levels I'm probably going over to calm the coach down and get on with the game.

How would you handle it?

[Umpire in Chief]

Thats a tough situation. I treat scrimmages like the real thing other than line ups and visits.

A couple of things I would consider are, just how loud is he, is there any safety issue, the age of the kids.

Stepping into that situation is asking for the dirty end of the stick. So I would try to find someone from the administration to handle it.

[semperfiguy]

Maybe you can contact an assistant coach if there is one. You cant afford to have him continue a rant if parents are watching. i think everyone knows your are in control and may be looking for you to do something. i understand frustration and anger. But for the good of the game it has to end, or put it to bed for him. Balls and strikes baby!!!

[Kyle_Stevens]

I agree with semperfiguy, try to get the assistant to calm him down. In my area, most small schools have one guy to coach, drive the bus, keep the books, tutor, and make sure the laundry gets done. It also depends on your relationship with the coach. You could walk over to the dugout and say, "Jim, can I talk to ya for a minute?" Once it is you and he, "Jim, I know you aren't happy with your kids but you can't keep going on in there like you are. I wouldn't allow it in a regular game and I am not going to allow it now." Most likely the assistant could get to him better, but it may come down to having to flex your muscle just a little.

[littleleagueump]

It appears that you have let the control of the conduct of the game just go away. Do not let ill manners of a manager, coach or player disrupt a game. If you let anyone show emothins such as what you described, that person may do it at any time in any game.