Volunteer Umpire Tip of the Month –
May 2006
Umpires must walk a fine line between keeping the game under control
and not exacerbating situations with over-aggressive or arrogant
actions. Although every situation is unique, umpires on the field
should follow the guidelines below:
- Umpires should remain calm, professional, tactful, firm, in
control, fair and impartial. They cannot be perceived as overly
aggressive, confrontational, hot-headed, short-tempered, timid,
intimidated or nervous. Umpires must never display impatience or a
condescending attitude.
- Umpires are expected to understand their role as a steady,
calming influence on the game. Umpires must be able to sort out
complex and important situations and cannot be hesitant to make
unpopular decisions.
- Umpires should never ignore occurrences on the field that
require their attention to maintain order and control. But when
difficult situations arise, it is essential that umpires stay above
the emotional fray and never lower themselves to the excitable level
of a particular player, manager, or coach. Umpires must be clear and
decisive, while not overly aggressive or overbearing. They are
expected to become more assertive if the situation calls for such,
but must control their temper at all times. All in all, umpires must
calm volatile situations while keeping control and managing them.
- Umpires should listen to managers if discussions are reasonable
and non-emotional. Umpires are to be firm and authoritative in
conversations with managers — but should never initiate an argument.
Umpires must not create unnecessary friction by ignoring reasonable
inquiries. At the same time, umpires must command respect during
difficult situations and never tolerate personal abuse.
- Umpires must avoid sarcastic remarks and profanity and not
insist on the last word.
- Umpires cannot look for trouble or invite arguments. If a
situation can defuse itself, umpires must allow it to happen.
Umpires must not be perceived as having escalated a situation.
Remember, umpires can get rule updates, interpretations, useful
tips like these and much more, by signing up for the Little League
Umpire Registry.
Click here for
more details.
Also, chartered Little Leagues can order a copy of the Little League
E-Rules CD, which now includes videos of selected rules.
Click
here for more details.
Resources
For more information contact Little League International
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