how to be an umpire?

[BearsDad]

I've coached rec ball for many years. I'm now thinking I'd like to umpire. what does it take?

[Comp]

Find out who your local umpires are working through, be it ASA, TCS the high school assocation etc. Ask what training they provide or try to find an ASA associaiton close enough to you that has classes available you can attend. Get a rule book, study the rules and find an experienced partner to work games with and just start learning.

[jonriv]

Get a lobotomy

[eclipse09]

Go in the stands of any travel or rec game. Sit close to the pitcher's mom or dad. Pretend you are the PU. You are good to go if the comments don't bother you.

Good luck!!

[BearsDad]

Im being serious...lol.... I was just thinking....

[eclipse09]

Im being serious...lol.... I was just thinking....

I think it is a good idea as long as you have thick skin. The sport can always use more umps and good ones at that. I would follow Comp's advice. And seriously good luck!

[tcannizzo]

Aside from Rules knowledge and Mechanics, Game Management is one of the things that separates good umpires from excellent umpires.

Learn how not to get caught up in the emotions of the coaches when being confronted.
Seriously, watch a few episodes of Dog Whisperer. Cesar is the ump. Be the Coach Whisperer.

[jonriv]

The best umps IMO are those that are knowledgable about the rules, confident and make calls with conviction. They have the inate ability to be both in the background and to take control of the game. The best ones realize that they are an important part of the game, but the game is not about them. As a coach have alway appreciated friendly umpires and those that will explain calls when needed.

[MTR]

Get a lobotomy

He said become an umpire, not move to the insurance capitol of the world.

Oops, sorry I forgot this

[Lunatic Fringe]

I've sometimes thought the same thing as you. After watching hundreds of games over the years there is no way I can do worse.

Things to consider

1) Become an opium eater
2) Have the operation to remove most of your brain
3) Suffer from Vertigo
4) Remove your testicles

Any two of the above seems to be a prerequisite to becoming an umpire