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”