Game Management
2008
National Umpire School
Game Management
Five Factors of Successful Umpiring
• Preparation
• Knowledge of the Rules
• Mechanics and Technique
• Judgment
• Listening and Communicating
Game Management
Rules and Mechanics
• Tools of the Trade– Rules– Mechanics– Judgment and Communication
Game Management
Rules and Mechanics
• Good Mechanics =
• Better Positioning =
• Better Judgment +
• Proper Game Management =
• Less Problems
Game Management
Begins with YOU! Lead by Example....
• Arrive Early
• Look the Part
• Prepare
• Establish a Rapport
Game Management
Preparation
• Know and Understand the Dynamics of the Age Group Playing
• Greeting Players and Coaches Upon Arrival – “First Impressions”
Game Management
Preparation and Rules Knowledge
• Learn the Terminology of Softball – Terms are a Common Ground
• Rules Knowledge = Confidence
• Common Sense Application of the Rules
• Preventive Umpiring
Game Management
Mechanics and Technique
• Every Game You Work – Start Strong and Finish Strong
• Hustle! Know Where You are Suppose to go
• Timing – Slow Down
• Use Crisp ASA Signals – Strong Voice
Game Management
Listening and Communicating
• Maintain a Calmness that Encourages Approachability
• Listen First, Then Listen Some More
• Be Aware of your Body Language, Tone of Voice, Demeanor and “Field Presence”
Game Management
Listening and Communicating
• Answer Reasonable Questions
• Listen to Understand, Not to Respond
• Shift Focus from Emotion to the Play – “What did you see?” or “What is it about the play that you think I missed?”
Game Management
Handling Difficult Situations
• Coaches on the Field While on Defense
• Arguing Balls and Strikes
• Coach talks to the Wrong Umpire Initially on a Call
• Coach Walks Half-way to “’Argue” a Call
Game Management
Handling Difficult Situations
• Coach Bolts onto the Field Without Requesting Time (Live Ball)
• Between Innings “Politicking”
• Coach Talks to You about Your Partner’s Strike Zone or a Call Made by Him / Her
Game Management
When All Else Fails – EJECT
• Know Where to Draw the Line• Eject When Necessary• Deal With Abuse Abruptly• Be Confident• Walk Away – Do Not Continue to Engage• Re-Focus, Get on with the Game
Game Management
In Closing….
• Develop Your Own Style
• Be Adaptable
• Be Consistent
• Give Respect
• Be Honest
Game Management
In Closing….
“MANAGE THE GAME, NOT THE
INDIVIDUALS”