Ejections

Well day one of the final week, and we were out on the diamonds by 9am due to threatening weather and forecast of rain late morning. Game one I was scheduled to work with Jack in the top of the 5th and top of the 6th.

Since I had not had any ejections to date, i was sort of expecting it. And it started straight away, the sniper fire about balls & strikes from the dugout. Then Quinn questioned a pitch, Craig comes out and is talking to his batter and make a comment about using a nine iron - I ignored, but he then kept going on the balls and strikes, so he was gone.

I run though a few more plays, then a first and third, 1 out, line up the catch in left field, more into position for the time play and there is an out at second, after a quick check of how many where out I call the run not scoring. Sarg then is upon me, right in my face telling me that i was not in position and that i should get help etc. I informed him that i was in position and that my partner would not be able to help with this one. With a little more yelling of disapproval in my face, to finally tell me I was Horseshit - he was done. Just seemed strange, firstly because he has not been acting as the manager of teams and secondly, men of his age don't argue like that!

The evaluation of my game - mostly positive, biggest issue - not throwing them soon enough!! What can one say - I'm a nice person and tolerant, need to be a little tougher, probably not what my son would say.

After lunch I was scheduled for another game, but the rain bet us to it, it was back in the classroom. After a quick review of some common issues (mainly people not doing ejections quick enough), we were spoken to by Kevin Winn from the American Association - Independent Leagues. Kevin spoke of their need also for umpires and the fact that another league was commencing this year and would also be looking for umpires. I am sure a number for guys will be working in these leagues this year.

Then after watching a couple of inspirational videos it was the end of the day. Just 5 days to graduation. As Jim would say, the light is turning on and starting to shine.

Whilst I start to look forward to getting home, to my family and friends, and back to normal life, I will also miss all these wonderful people I have met. Although one of the guys from Puerto Rico has told me he wants to take me home... He still has a week to convince me :-).