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There are many reasons for umpiring. They include a love of the game, the needs
of the players, physical fitness, personal challenge and lastly earning a few
spending bucks.
Love of the Game
Many umpires
officiate for the love of the game. They realize that the game cannot be played
fairly and safely without the officials on the field. Many umpires will admit
that they are not so virtuous that they do it just for the game; they also
officiate so that they can be near the game. The perspective of officials is
different from that of anyone in the game. They must be fair and yet flexible
and tolerant.
Physical Fitness
Many umpires enjoy
the physical activity that is so critical to quality officiating. Every good
umpire realizes that the official of a competitive game needs to be as fit as
the participants. While umpires many not always be as skilled, as fast or as
nimble, they must be students of the game. They must understand the strategies
of the game. And it is important that the officials are physically able to be in
the right position during that critical point at the end of the game.
Responsible umpires maintain their fitness throughout the season and work out
during the off season to keep in shape.
Personal
Challenge
Umpires take great delight in the challenge of
officiating. When the insanity of a highly contested match reaches a fevered
pitch, can he meet the challenge of being calm and rational, and not get too
caught up in the emotions of the moment? He endeavors to meet the personal
challenge presented by the physical but skilled player? Another challenge is the
clamor that surrounds even the calmest game. Can he face unruly coach or the
uneducated fan with a smile or an understanding comment? When does the umpire
stop being understanding and tolerant, and respond with the needed disciplinary
action? That personal challenge to his patience, officiating skill and refusal
to fall into emotional traps are what keep him coming back.
Money
While umpires enjoy the money that they make,
that is not the real reason why they officiate.
Most officials make more in their normal careers in a day then they can make in a week officiating. Many officials use their officiating income as extra money to support their hobbies, buy some things for the family, take a special vacation or just enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle by eating out more often or other small luxuries.
Whatever your reason for umpiring, it needs to be fulfilling
and rewarding. The game cannot continue without officials. The players cannot
expect to play in a fair and safe environment without officials. You will likely
never find another hobby with as many personal challenges. You can even make
some money to treat yourself or your loved ones. Enjoy!! |
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