Editor's note: Bill Tripodi joined the American Federation Of Umpires two years ago. He has worked nearly every level of baseball that we service and has done a great job representing AFU. When he recently attended Jim Evans' three day umpire workshop in Flemington New Jersey we asked him to share his observations with the rest of us.

Looking to improve the level of my game, I attended the Jim Evans Liberty Classic Umpires Clinic. It was held in Fleming New Jersey, on March 2nd, 3rd, and 4th at the Healthquest Dome. For those who do not know Mr. Evans, let me enlighten you. Jim is a former major league umpire with twenty-seven years experience. He officiated four world series, twelve post season series, and three all star games. He is currently president and chief instructor for the Jim Evans Academy of Professional Umpiring, one of only two schools to train umpires for major league baseball.

The clinic was split between rules, plate and field mechanics. The classes were held at the motel meeting room. Field work at the indoor Healthquest dome, a few miles away. Myself and forty five other amateur umpires, of varied experience, worked from 1pm to 10pm on Friday, 8am to 8pm on Saturday and 8am to 1pm with a luncheon on Sunday. During lectures, Jim dazzled us with his intimate knowledge of the rules and their interpretations. Some of the topics we discussed and analyzed, at length, were balks, foul tips, obstruction, interference and strike zone strategies. Dick Nelson , a former senior field supervisor for PBUC, led the instruction of the PBUC 2-man mechanics book. On the field, we worked on plate stance and mechanics, the strike zone, check swings and positioning for plays. Base work consisted of angle and distance positioning theory, trouble balls, pivots, pick offs, steals and plate responsibilities. The imaginary box theory was covered as well. This is an imaginary square from home to the 45foot mark to the rubber and 45 feet up the 3rd base line. We ran some great drills on most of these mechanics.

I was very impressed that 95% of the instruction was by Jim Evans or Dick Nelson. They were both present 100% of the time. Equally impressive was Jim 's staff of minor league umpires. Jason Klein ran the business end of the seminar. The registration, motel, on site umpire store and customer service were flawless under Jason 's management. Chris Hubler, who was responsible for the clinic coming to the northeast, was also outstanding. The entire staff was excellent. They were accommodating, knowledgeable and accessible, any and all questions were answered. It didn 't matter if it was after a lecture, during field drills or before breakfast. Jim, Dick and the crew also socialized with us at meals and after hours enjoying a brew. My impression was that all of the staff clearly wanted you to leave the clinic a better umpire.

I totally enjoyed my experience at the Liberty Classic. Jim Evan 's style of teaching was tremendous. His charm, wit and personality combined with his expertise and knowledge are powerful tools that he uses well. I was fascinated listening to all of his umpire stories throughout the weekend. Most were used to illustrate and teach a point, some just to entertain.

I recommend this clinic to any umpire wanting to improve his skill sets. You will learn many new skills and techniques while honing your existing knowledge. The best part is that you 'll have a great time doing it!

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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