Umpire Shortage Issue by Sean Hall
We have a very serious problem with the shortage of umpires for League and Travel/Club Softball Tournaments. If we don't work together we are going to have a major issue. Here are some thoughts on things we can do to help with the situation.
- Coaches, don't work umps on every call. Save your questions for the 1 or 2 really important calls but don't work them on every borderline call.
- Coaches and Parents, someone needs to stand up to the know it all parents that sit behind the backstop and question every call. Or better yet, anyone that wants to question calls gets assigned to do a game, and then we can all watch them try to do a better job.
- RECRUIT UMPIRES!!! Anyone can make some good money umping games. With tournaments all year long, it's something that could really help, especially for those younger people that are still in High School or College.
- Acknowledge the umpires that have done a great job in your games. Make sure they know they are appreciated!
I am going to post on our Facebook page. I am asking you to post something positive about a local umpire. Let's make sure they know they are appreciated!
