Greetings!
What a special time May is for college baseball. The weather for many is finally starting to act like baseball season. Conference races are coming down to the final weekends and conference and post season tournaments have or will begin shortly.
For umpires, this should signal a time for our very best performances. No time for fatigue, cruise control or loss of focus. Baseball is a game that can humble you if your attention wavers even for one pitch. As Yogi once said “Give 100% to everything you do and when that is not enough, give everything you have left.” Keep up the great work and rise to these challenges.
Congratulations to all of our umpires who will have the opportunity for NCAA post season assignments. Do not take these opportunities for granted whether this is your first year or you have many under your belt. Many umpires are aspiring to reach your level. Be a good mentor by being a great umpire with these opportunities. You represent a lot of people with your every appearance, demeanor, action and performance.
Along with everything else, put a smile on your face and have fun! Take a few moments to savor the setting, the atmosphere and the significance of your role. Many will never get to where you are and many may never have the opportunity again. It’s a great day to be an umpire!
Also, do not forget Mother’s Day on May 12. Many of you will be on the road umpiring and most of you have a family who supports and allows you to do what you do. Take some special time to recognize those who sacrifice on your behalf. Have a great month of May!
Gene McArtor
NCAA National Coordinator of Baseball Umpires
.png){kind=small}
