mpires are like the conductors of an orchestra. The good conductors produce the sweetest music by drawing out the best from each individual, guiding the group as a whole, and allowing the music to flow. The good umpires manage the game by recognizing the players that need special handling, reading the direction the game is inclined to go, and allowing it to flow while massaging it here or there only as needed.

Good conductors aren’t born, they are made. Good umpires aren’t born either. They are made through toil, sweat, tears, hard work, study, and practice. The skills of good game management evolve from studied disciplines.

You must know the rules. You must know the mechanics. But to keep going and survive in this racket, you gotta know how to work well with others.

Continued...