Editor's note - John Kehoe has umpired for AFU for the last six years. His career spans twenty-three (23) years at the college and high school level. He has the distinction of having umpired in eighteen New York City High School Championship contests thus far, in his career, for the Catholic High School (CHSAA) and the Public High School (PSAL) leagues. When he is not umpiring, he is teaching at our Advanced Workshops conducted over the Winter, coaching (pitching coach) at the high school level in the Spring or coaching a travel team in the Fall. Inspite of a voluminous schedule, Dr. Kehoe is the Assistant Superintendent of Schools in Bronxville, New York.

The keys to successful game management for any umpire begin before the first pitch is thrown. Showing up on the field at least ten minutes before game time, dressed in a neat and professional manner, and carrying yourself with a confident, not a cocky or arrogant, approach, will set the proper tone for coaches, players and fans. A proper level of hustle and a spirit of enthusiasm will send the message that you enjoy what you do and are very competent in your role as an official.


Some other things to consider:
1. Coordination with your partner.
He is the only real friend you have on the field. Don't give each other up. Be supportive. If an argument begins, let everyone knows you are in this together. If a question of rules comes up, consult the book by getting away from the crowd together. Take the time to get it right. Discuss your coordination on stretches at first base and what happens if you are blocked on a play. Move the game along, but don't rush it. Finally, keep your meetings to a minimum during the game. It is not a social occasion.

2. Fans.
Be courteous as you walk to and from the field, but don't engage in conversations. Stay away from fences and sidelines between innings. If things get out of control with fans, be proactive. Speak to the home coach, athletic director, or security let them take care of it.

3. Players.
Be courteous. It is OK to stay hello. Don't be unapproachable. Players have a right to ask a question in the proper way. Give your answer in a calm manner. Learn the importance of being "selectively deaf and blind". Don't go looking for a fight.

4. Coaches.
Again, exercise a courteous attitude. Don't be overly friendly, especially if you have a relationship with a coach already. It will send the wrong message to an opposing coach. Same as the players, coaches have a right to ask in a proper way. Leave your mask on - take it off in a dispute when you need to assert yourself. Charging an official or contact are always unacceptable. In a dispute, stay calm, control your temper and watch your language. Give the coach his say, but after that, walk away. Never chase a coach. You are in charge. A word about the legendary coaches - every league has its legends. These coaches have gotten their reputation for a variety of reasons - winning and attitude are just two of the usual reasons. Give them their due, but treat all coaches equally.

5. Ejections.
If it comes to pass that there is no way to keep someone in the game, then when you eject them be quick and emphatic. It goes without saying that a warning should be given and they should know you are finished talking and have had enough. After it is done, walk away. Don't hang around to keep the problem alive. If it doesn't end with the ejection, a forfeit can be threatened, but should only be used as a last resort.

6. "Chirping" and confrontations among players.
Put a stop to "chirping" right away. If you don't, it will lead to trouble. It is your job to keep control. A fight will be the result and it could have been avoided. If a fight breaks out and you can't intervene immediately, step back from it and take names and numbers. You will need this information later. Let the coaches or security break it up.

Each of these six sections can be an article unto itself. Think about each suggestion. Talk to successful, experienced officials and learn the importance of each issue.

Overall, learn the four "Cs" of good officiating:
COORDINATE with your partner.
Be CONSISTENT in your management of the game.
Always be in CONTROL.
Remain CALM.

Follow these "Cs" and enjoy the game.

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Any member of the AFU that would be interested in writing an article about umpiring and would like to have them published on our web site please contact Dave Mekelburg AFU#9 at: info@americanfederationofumpires.com