New Jersey Shore Amateur Softball Association Inc.

During the course of the softball season we as umpires have all encountered some kind of hostility from players, coaches and spectators. It is important to keep calm during these situations, as hostility on an umpire’s part will only make things worse. Many times a coach or player just wants to blow off steam and vent his frustration, often it is because he/she is upset over a bad baserunning decision or play by one of their players. Sometimes a coach is protecting a player and isn’t even angry with you. Let the coach or player have their say and get on with the game.

In situations when the hostility is directed at you it is even more important to keep your cool. If you failed to hustle or get into position to make the call, expect to here more grief and be prepared to take it. If you did hustle and were in a good position to make the call, let the coach or player have their say and then calmly explain to them that you were in a good position to make the call and you’re sorry they don’t agree but this is how you saw it. Never yell or talk down to them above all do not give them the say one more word and your gone line, instead try something like O.K. coach you’ve had your say that’s enough.

Remember coaches, players and family put a lot of time and money into softball so don’t be to quick to eject them from a game. Of course this does not give them a reason to be abusive or degrading to you, if someone does not know when to stop after you have told them to do not be afraid to eject them. If you have no choice but to eject someone be it fan, player or coach be sure to fill out the ejection form on our web-site or a paper one you may have and notify Steve Hill A.S.A.P. by phone with the details.

Lastly don’t have rabbit ears and don’t look for trouble there is enough of it out there already. Remember that hustle, positioning and a good attitude can help you avoid much of the hostility that we all inevitably encounter.

Have a great season

John