Anyone that has played or coached the game should understand by now that officiating a game is not the easiest job on the field. As much grief as umpires take in our game – it’s important to remember that they are vital to our game and they are human and can make mistakes just like coaches and players. About 90 percent of the plays in our game are obvious and don’t need an objective party to make the call. However, in the other 10 percent, umpires prevent constant argument so the game can go on. Even when every call in a game is clear and easy, the mere presence of an umpire brings credibility to the contest.

Umpires are human and this means that they are going to make mistakes. It is imperative that coaches and parents understand that there is only one acceptable way to treat youth sports officials is with respect. The coach sets the tone and when the coach understands the principle of mutual respect, he or she is more likely to be in control of his players and the parents. The parents will take cues from the coach. If the coach is abusive, the parents are likely to follow suit and be abusive. If the coach does not tolerate this behavior, the parents will be better behaved.

I have found over my years of coaching, the more I show appreciation for the job they are doing, the better the results. There is no umpire that blows a call on purpose as they usually have the same passion and desire to give everyone their best effort. There is a certain way to discuss a call that goes against you and the main thing is to keep your composure, understand the rules of the game, and never embarrass an official. They are truly trying to give their best effort to allow the game to go smoothly without controversy. When mutual respect is established, the official will be better able to give his or her best in calling a good and fair contest. If parents are generally supportive of the official and he or she then hears someone question a call from the sidelines, he or she is more likely to pay attention to this type of feedback. The parents have gained credibility with the official because they have not complained about every call. Consequently, the official will think more about the last call to determine if it was in error.

All I ask from umpires is to hustle, know the rules, communicate clearly, and maintain a focus on doing what’s right for the players. If they do these things, I can live with a blown call from time to time.

Here are some key points to remember:

• Respect their role on the field
• Respect the person dressed in Blue
• Respect the game and the job of officials
• Focus on the players
• Be reasonable and don’t argue every call
• Be polite and don’t get personal
• Keep the game fun
• Downsize your ego
• Teach your players the rules of the game

Until Next Month,

Coach Mike Candrea