Reading the Rules!

Whenever I watch sports on t.v. or in real person, I find it comical how many coaches (not all) don't know the rules and more importantly, how the rules are enforced, interpreted, and administered in baseball. That is why it is crucial for every umpire, as a part of their preseason duty, read through all three of the books you get from the NFHS. These three books (Rule Book, Case Book, and Umpire Manual) are the best way to make sure you have the most successful season possible.

I am going into my fourth season as a High School baseball umpire and every year, I pain stakingly go through all three books, highlighting things I need to be sure to remember or new rules or interpretations as I go.

My goal is to be able to handle almost every situation that could happen on a baseball diamond with complete confidence. The best way to do that is know the RULES!

I encourage all umpires to read their rules carefully, no matter what level you work. NFHS rules are fairly standard and many lower level leagues use them as a base, then make amendments to them. If you umpire in leagues like that, be sure you get a copy of the amended rules and carefully study those.

If you are member of an officials association, definitely go to every meeting you can. These association meetings are great because you are with a group of people talking about rules and different situations that you may not think about on your own. If you have questions about rules, these meetings are definitely an ideal place to get those questions answered.

All of the snow has basically been melted off here in Indiana. Spring is getting closer... I'm getting exciting...