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	Author	TOPIC: Umpires
	Solson July 14, 2007 12:27:36 AM Entry #: 2261216	It is a hard job to be an umpire...I know this because I have done it before...but I have heard/seen some things so far this year that were just plain ridiculous: 1-a couple of games ago...an umpire threw one of my girls out of a CO-ED softball game because after she struck out...she walked away and said..."that umpire needs glasses"--Now I realize it was not helpful for her to say it, but she did not say it to him...and if you are an umpire and have never heard this comment...it is your first day.--I asked the ump about it after the game and he said that although he hes taken it at every other venue he umps...he would not accept it at a COED softball game. 2-Our umpire tonight told both teams before the game that if he heard any complaints-AT ALL-that he was going to throw that person out of the game. I asked if that meant the coach couldn't even ask him about a call...and he said nope...Anyone will get thrown out!!!---Are you kidding me?---and why?-he said becasue this is CO-ED softball...and thats not why we are out here!!! Now listen, I think in Co-ed, we play for fun, but we also want to win...and we paid the same $550 entry fee as any other team in mens league or church...so come on umps...how about a little latitude? Just give us the same chances you give everyone else...after all...as a coach I should be able to ask you about a call. If I get out of line, then warn me or throw me out...but it seems somewhat outrageous to throw anyone out of a game on a whim or because your feelings get hurt. (By the way-just for the record I have never been thrown out of a game). Anyway, just thought I would let my voice be heard. Hope I didn't offend anyone.
	DReid July 14, 2007 12:47:30 AM Entry #: 2261230	You're absolutely right Sam. Who is this umpire? Give me a call tomorrow or email me. dtreidjr@aol.com 967-4711
	DReid July 14, 2007 12:51:40 AM Entry #: 2261233	I just went back and reread this. I agree 100% with what you said on point #2. But, point #1, he has that right to throw her out. Players should extend the same courtesy to the umpires as they should expect from them. I'm sure that if she had swung and missed that she wouldn't have wanted him telling her that she needed glasses. I'm not saying that I agree with it because I don't know what was said to him up to that point and if he had just had enough. But I'm saying that he has that right. But your point on #2 I agree with and will immediately address.
	Solson July 14, 2007 1:37:58 AM Entry #: 2261254	I honestly do not know his name tonight...Kevin was keeping score and I am sure will have it. As far as point one goes, I understand that he could throw her out...but this GIRL had not said anything to him all game...It just seemed to me like a warning may have been more appropriate. Like I said though...I know that saying stuff like that where an umpire can hear it, will definately not help your cause or your team...but at the same time...probably not worthy of being ejected either...and that umpire told me he puts up with that in all other leagues and it was because of it being co-ed...Sexist maybe? I dont know, but it sure seemed unfair that night.
	Becca July 14, 2007 8:14:39 PM Entry #: 2262010	Sam, if thats what she told you she said, then shes not telling the truth. I was catching and when the ump called the 3rd strike, your girl turned around to him and said, "You need glasses." Said it to his face. No umpire should have to put up with a player acting like that. As Ive said before, 'good grief, we're supposed to be adults!'
	July 14, 2007 9:36:35 PM Entry #: 2262089	Hell some of the umps that have glasses evidently need to get new ones. We had an ump on Thursday actually admit to making a bad call then he said he would make up for it next time. What kind of crap is that. Before anyone says it he was not kidding. Make the right call the first time and we wont have these problems. I understand that the umps are not professionals, but if you make the wrong call then change it to the right one. I hope that in the fall league we use the matt. It was alot better and atleast you knew what was a strike. From one game to the next you never really know what the strike zone really is. Well I have vented enough
	DReid July 15, 2007 12:21:30 PM Entry #: 2262609	Cool, now I'll vent a little. You want to know what a strike is? It's whatever the umpire calls a strike. I guarantee that anyone on this site who is griping about the umpires does not know the rules like they do and if they were to umpire a game, wouldn't do half the job they do. There are a lot of reasons why I got rid of the mat. 1 is that it takes away the ability for the umpire to call a ball on a pitch that may hit the back of the mat, but crosses the batter at his head. That along with the ridiculous amount of confusion that something as simple as putting a mat out for balls and strikes caused is not worth it. Plus, there are other reasons that I am not going to get into on here, but they are very valid. Murphysboro, Carbondale and Marion have never used a mat until I tried it this year. The leagues have been played every year without a mat. I'm not sure if Lester is going to use the mat or not. We've been talking a lot since he agreed to take over the men's league and the league in general. I've gone over all the reasons why I got rid of the mat and once he knew why, he agreed. That's not saying that he won't try it again, but I don't know.
	L Bowles July 15, 2007 2:57:41 PM Entry #: 2262741	Very well put Dan and if anybody is really that intrested in hearing about it i would tell them to show up at the meeting at 7 on the 16th...I would be more than happy to explain and also be open to the ideas of others on this issue and others.....So if you want your voice heard i ask that you show up at the meeting Thanks
	Tyson July 15, 2007 5:20:16 PM Entry #: 2262882	Atta-boy dan!!! Also to the person who said "just make the right call the first time"....are you kidding??? Humans make mistakes, im sure if you have played softball for a while you have made an error in the field, how bout you just catch the ball?? Alot easier said than done...
	Cards2215 July 15, 2007 5:24:48 PM Entry #: 2262890	Wow it takes a big man or woman to call out the umps and not leave a name for someone to reply towards. Fact is, some of you people bitch about way to much. The smallest thing will send half of you in a slow pitch softball melt down. I dont know what you've been told, but I for one have always been under the impression that theres bigger things in life than softball...WHOA take a minute, thats probally big news to people who get on here and bitch all the time..I've watched many of softball games and understand that umpires o though look perfect where their perfectly tucked in asa shirt and there blue shorts and that sharp asa hat are NOT perfect. Infact sometimes they make mistakes, but if i went and counted how many times they made mistakes during a game and compared them to how many times the avg slow pitch softball player makes a mistake in the field...five bucks says the players make more...do the umpires say anything about your mistakes, NOPE. Typically, does the umpires mistake make your team lose the game...nope, im guessing that your own errors is what really cost your teams the runs..and the L's...With my rant 3/4's of the way over i just wanted to SHOUT PROPS to Dan Reid for what he said.
	Solson July 15, 2007 8:41:07 PM Entry #: 2263171	Okay everyone, I did not start this thread so we could all rant about calls. Fact is that 50% of the people will be upset about the calls 50% of the time and the other 50% will be upset the rest of the time. Whining over balls and strikes is not why this post started.
	Tyson July 15, 2007 11:48:14 PM Entry #: 2263548	Sam-i understand why you started this, what i said was not directed at you, but at the guy or girl that didnt leave a name that claims umpires should be super-human and never make a mistake. I agree with you, by the way get ready for hockey!
	yeah July 16, 2007 12:15:27 AM Entry #: 2263567	Hockey Rules!!
	Solson July 16, 2007 2:19:45 PM Entry #: 2264727	I know Tyson...I just didn't want anybody else using it for that purpose...I will be ready for Hockey...as much as I ever am...LOL
	TP July 16, 2007 4:47:49 PM Entry #: 2265072	First to olsen whom started this, your player complained every time she got up to bat. My advice to you is teach her how to hit the ball instead of waiting on a walk. And she did give me the flat tire syndrome the previous times up and mumbled something under her breath. I dont look at this site much but came on to check some games on the calender, glad i took the time to look at the topics.It isnt soo much what she said it was how she said it and build up from other at bats. Dan, I dont know you all that well but seem to be a decent guy. But all you have to do is tell me I am off the hook for the rest of my games and it would be a blessing. I get $40.00 per game for little league and 45-50 for american legion and junior high season isnt far off. The only reason i took half of these games was no one jumped up and took them, esp. co-ed. I just as soon stay at home and watch my mets or be on the lake. I dont plan on doing anything for Marion at all next year. I may do a few for c-dale and murphy but thats it. So again if you have a concern and dont want disrespectful players tossed than just fill my games and no hard feelings. Really! No wonder kids act the way they do when they see adults act like poor sports.
	tp July 16, 2007 4:58:52 PM Entry #: 2265098	I dont know about point #2, wasnt me, only #1
	Rsummers July 16, 2007 5:47:07 PM Entry #: 2265171	Ok well after reading all this i feel i need to say a few things!!! One... everyone talks like co ed is a sub sport.. for those of you who have seen my team ... id bet we could play with some mens teams.. with that said... the rules are the same for both... my girls wait for the rite pitch and if the pitcher cant find the strike zone.. then they have the rite to walk... and it isnt up to the umpire to change the zone to make someone swing. We play alot of tourneys and alot times its the walks and knowledge of the strike zone that put you ahead.. Second.. no umpire is all mighty out there... as you are trying to remind us its just softball .. let me remind your your rite... and therefore dont ump like its the major leagues. 3rd... every umpire is gona make a mistake... they come with the game... and i agree if more people knew the rules thered be less griping lol not. Only when there is a huge problem.. should there be any whining about balls and strikes... or plays of that matter.. Maybe we should all understand.. that those who can do.. and those who cant find away to stay around... And lastly all of you umpire wannabees you can easily take the test and try it for yourself... like i think i am...
	Becca July 16, 2007 7:56:03 PM Entry #: 2265366	TP, Id be sorry to see you leave. Just my opinion but I think youre one of the best ones out there.
	DReid July 16, 2007 8:51:28 PM Entry #: 2265471	Troy, All I have to do is tell you that you’re off the hook? I don’t think that I’ve addressed anything TO you or ABOUT you. As you stated in your second post, you said that #1 was about you and #2 wasn’t. I said in my post that the umpire has the right to throw her out. I in fact said this “Players should extend the same courtesy to the umpires as they should expect from them. I'm sure that if she had swung and missed that she wouldn't have wanted him telling her that she needed glasses. I'm not saying that I agree with it because I don't know what was said to him up to that point and if he had just had enough. But I'm saying that he has that right.”. So why you feel that you needed to say “So again if you have a concern and dont want disrespectful players tossed than just fill my games and no hard feelings.” I don’t understand. I’m assuming that you just misread what I wrote because I can’t imagine someone reading what I said, comprehending it and then coming back with the comments that you did. The thing that I agreed with Sam on was that, and I still 100% completely agree, an umpire should not approach a Co-Ed game any differently than the Men’s A league for instance. The pay is the same and their job is the same. But as you said, that was point #2 that he made and #2 as you said, was not you. So, I have no idea why your post was directed at me or why it had the tone it did. What you make doing other games, would rather do with your time or plan to do next year has absolutely nothing to do with any of this. I have always and will always back the umpires. They run the game and don’t need to be undermined. How you got anything but that from any of my posts in this thread is beyond me. If you do not want to umpire in Marion anymore, that is your call. You have the responsibility to find a replacement and if you want to do that, you have that right. Sorry for the long reply, but wanted to make sure that I wasn’t misunderstood again.
	TP July 17, 2007 12:52:43 AM Entry #: 2265803	Dan, I didnt mean to come off on a bad tone. The point I am making is Sam is upset over some issues and I was making it clear that most of the games I was scheduled for no one else took and I spoke up after no one wanted them. I just want him to know that maybe he should just be glad he has a patched ump there. And as for him saying he paid money and he is saying that gives him a right to gripe and argue calls I dont agree. I pay money to go see my son play High school basketball, that doesnt give me the right to do what i please because I paid money to get in the door. I used to coach basketballand baseball and i never made one bad remark to an official. I knew how most officiials called and told my players how i thought they would call the game. What really gets me is if you make a call for a team you never see the coach stand up and say hey ump that was a bad call. Its ok if the other team gets hosed by a mistake. what Sam needs to realize is he isnt not playing in the 7th game of the world series and never will be!!!!!!! What he should try doing is setting an example for the kids that are there watching and show them how an adult should handle adversity. And Rob, I could send out a survey to 10,000 people whom reisde in marion and Id bet 99% couldnt tell me whom is on your team and what your record is!!! You guys need to face it that your not going to make a name for your self in slow pitch, my 10 year old daughter could go out there and make good contact.yeah there are guys that have god given ability to hit it farther than others. But Ive not seen a game yet that draws a crowd even bigger than Cairo junior high baseball. They even out draw you for fans and they arent even known for baseball.even better than that Joppa out draws you for fan base in baseball, and have you been to joppa recently? Nothing there!!!!!!! Point is come play be competitive,have fun and demonstrate good sportsmanship. Sam knows cause i told him I wouldnt take it from a junior high kid a highschool kid and I aint taking any more disrespect from adults. The last i knew of vegas doesnt have a line on you guys so that rules out me being pete rose. i also dont go to work taking up odds on any of you guys cause no one cares but maybe the vienna jailbirds. pro guys only about 85-90% right. So ASA is about 7 levels below that,MLB-aaa-aa-a minors, HS and yes even junior high is more important. Sam & rob if you want to prove to me you are a good sb player lets get a couple of High school girls that pitch about 73 miles per hour and you hit a fast pitch from them without striking out and i may give you some props.There is no prestige in umping a asa game you arent a pro and neither am I. But one thing ive learned is it isnt worth my time. Not much excitment. Now when i did like c'ville and eldorado with the drust boy and suits boy pitching it is good to be a part of a well played game with future college players going at it. And yes there were college scouts and aa scouts there.That makes it a top page in the sports section in the southern. I have yet to see you or sam on the 1st page. Oh i guess i missed a level even american legion is above slow pitch. I could go on and on, and the it points to just take a minute and ask your self if its worth arguing? Dont think so!! And I hope you get your asa patch, to bad it is almost over or you could take some of my games. I did 10 year old boys tonite rob and they out drew you for fans. Pretty bad aint it????
	tp July 17, 2007 1:04:45 AM Entry #: 2265812	oh thanks becca for the compliment, I should have addressed the good first. I guess your stuck with me for this year becca. tonite made 9 outta 10 days ive had to umpire somewhere. Anyways i think you work with Sam and it takes a lot to come out and disagree with co-workers.I try do to a decent job. However it is like i tell people, Umps are like players even the good ones have bad days. I hope i didnt offend you by saying slow pitch didnt mean much, i know it does to you all but it just isnt as important as some of these guys thin it is. The sun will rise tomorrow the good lord willing. Oh my doctor said i didnt need glasses,YET!! I am sure it is around the corner though.
	Becca July 17, 2007 5:15:51 AM Entry #: 2265889	(man is my sleep schedule all messed up, LOL!!) TP, youre most welcome for the compliment and I dont mind being 'stuck' with you at all :) While I play on the VA Blue team, I dont work at or for the VA - just got in through a friend. (my grandmother retired from there as seamstress years ago..does that count?) ;)
	Rsummers July 17, 2007 5:43:26 AM Entry #: 2265902	TB... im your infinite wisdom you didnt get that i was standing up for ya... As for hitting the high school girl.. lol you mite wana get a college pitcher since i practice hitting with a college team in the off sesaon... As for the point about my co ed team... was just meant to say what Dan said... it has the same rules as all the other leagues.. and as far ass the way they are umoed they are no different.. And lastly( for me at least) i have a rite to ask or question anything on the field... as long as its done in a cival manner...even mite ask for an appeal ... if both umps are watching!
	Solson July 17, 2007 9:35:07 AM Entry #: 2266233	Hey Troy (TP)-I just want to say that I am blown away by your post. Tell me if I am wrong, but I think I do a pretty fine job of setting a good example...Didn't I approach you civally (after the game), to ask you about your decision? Have I ever acted out of line with you...or any umpire during the games?...I dont think so, cause A-I know it would set a bad example...and B-I know it would hurt my team. As far as umpiring, I do think you do a pretty good job. No one will get everything right every time and I dont expect you too. But as Rob said, I do want to have the ability to talk to the umpire about something questionable...as long as I dont get out of line with it. No one is attacking you here Troy...least of all me.
	TP July 17, 2007 9:47:30 AM Entry #: 2266244	Rob, I know 2 girls that could pitch for some college now as 1 being a soph. and the other going to be a junior. That aside you r right ask away but as far as arguing calls on a consistant basis shouldnt happen. Now if its a question as far as a rule I can see that or a check swing or a game book issue ok, but balls strikes are off limits. And as i siad too much griping about out and safe calls will get you a warning and then tossed by most.Each ump has limits as to how much arguing and griping he or she will take. but you were talking about questions? a civil question is an apple and arguing and griping is a fruit of a different kind!!!!! You guys make plenty of errors as players, I think us as umps should be allowed a few errors as we are human!!! No likes to make a error but it happens!
	deats 12 July 17, 2007 12:57:50 PM Entry #: 2266648	the only thing im going to say on this is yes umpires make mistakes...but i play on a couple of teams (lol) and i have never seen any of our players do anything that would set a bad example...actually we always have fun with the umpires atleast i do...with that said if you already have a strike and let one go by that is even questionable without swinging than why even come out and play? please dont make it seem like everyone just gripes the whole time...and if you didnt know that people were going to argue and gripe than why did u get in this profession? dont let the few bad people take away form all the others that are there to have a good fun competitive time..
	ZJohnson July 17, 2007 1:35:13 PM Entry #: 2266711	Wow!! - I didn't realize I wasn't a ML Baseball player until TP's wonderfully articulated post pointed it out so elequently...Please don't tell my wife becauase she is under the impression that I play for the Cardinals!!! I really appreciated how he made a point of ranking all the local sport teams that draw more fans...it sorta lets you see how NOT seriously he takes these games and may lend an idea to why he seems to be having issues??? Also - I don't watch a lot of girls softball, but I did watch the World Cup game last night (USA and Japan) - and no one threw above 65mph...and they are adults....are there really girl in High School that throw 73 consistantly?? if so - impressive.
	embarssed July 17, 2007 3:30:17 PM Entry #: 2266955	actually girls throwing 65 is the same as an 80 to 85 mph fast ball due to the reduced distance between the pictures mound and home plate so those balls get on you quick.Im kind of embarrsed that i know this because if theres one thing i dont respect in sports in girls fast pitch softball im sorry i think the games to "alterd."
	TP July 17, 2007 3:33:02 PM Entry #: 2266966	Hey deats, I should drop by the bank and argue about you giving me the correct change, or not being timely enough and letting the lines get to long. Stop and think about it, U are in public service at the bank, I bet you love people that gripe and complain about your any possible mistake. Just because you are an official doesnt give people the right to say what they want. You know I can take crap because ive reffed at creal many,many times. There are many officials that wont go there. There are several hundred IHSA officials in southern illinois. There are about 23 ASA umps, and not all do slow pitch, some only do fast pitch so the number is realy probably about 14 that work the Marion games. About half of the 14 prefer c'dale-murphy so you really have about 7-8 that do marion regularly. ZJ I have my opinoin that some of you guys take it way to seriously, only my opinion. You guys wont have to worry about me next year, for some that is good. This was my first in asa, I have done 6 HS and JHS. I will stick to what i enjoy. HS & JHS. I have 8 more at marion and cant wait til its over as i stay busy enough with American legion and little league stuff.If anyone is upset about my opinion i am sorry. i merely defended myself on a decision I made to eject a female. I take my fantasy football seriously, but money is at stake. deats again ive never had a problem with you and hope you didnt take this out of context because it is only an opinion and you know what is said about opinions.
	N.T.S July 17, 2007 4:35:39 PM Entry #: 2267109	QUOTE #1 FROM RSUMMERS-"One... everyone talks like co ed is a sub sport.. for those of you who have seen my team ... id bet we could play with some mens teams.." This is because your team is stacked, I personally would find it boring playing 3 to 5 inning games on a nightly basis. WOW your team can beat a bunch of throw together teams that have to barrow people so they don't have to forefit...WHOOOPIE!!! your the man!!! QUOTE #2 FROM RSUMMERS-"the rules are the same for both... my girls wait for the rite pitch and if the pitcher cant find the strike zone.. then they have the rite to walk..." Well, well, what about the men, I find it hard to believe that your team in the 4th inning with a 20 run lead that even YOU can't seem to hit a ball unless its a perfect strike, and just to let everyone know I'm not knocking your other players because from what I've seen you get pissy if someone swings without your permission or makes a mistake. Not trying to gripe, but from other teams and players I've talked too, and a personal observation, pitching against, and playing agianst your team sucks... not because you win, but its how you go about it... if your kicking our asses, well good, its ok if it happens, just don't be an ass about it... When you turn your back to the pitcher while looking at the ump on a 3-1 count and not swing the bat because the pitcher can't throw the "perfect" pitch because he's been out there for 20 minutes giving your guys batting practice. When your whole co-ed team except for the women can go yard at will, then hit the f*cking ball and don't be a pussy. Don't get me wrong I like to play, even though this has been the worst year ever for me, but I, like alot of others like to have a good time, but its hard when you have the so called "PRO" on the field. Well anyway thats all I have... I wish everyone a great day... and I can't wait to play again!!!
	Solson July 17, 2007 4:37:18 PM Entry #: 2267116	TP...anyone that knows me, knows that when I play checkers, chess, or tiddly winks, I like to win...I have never gotten out of line with you, and I do apologize if you think I started this post as a personal attack on you. I LOVE softball, and I just want to see it at it's best. I think Dan and most people on this site help to make it that way. I didn't start posting to complain about balls and strikes or being safe or out. I wanted to express the desire that co-ed games be umpired the same way as a male league game or even...yes...a High school baseball game. Thats all.
	N.T.S July 17, 2007 4:45:48 PM Entry #: 2267141	Just to let everyone know, I'm a really good person, I just felt the need to voice my opinion after reading the post...
	Rsummers July 17, 2007 5:44:41 PM Entry #: 2267275	Ok here we go again... with more bs from people... To let you in on a secret.. 1 i didnt walk at all last nite, and even swung at pitches over my head to not walk! And this coming from someone who intentionaly walked one of our players. What i got pissy about is the fact we are getting ready for a big tourney this wekend and state and nationals in august.. and people just dont get you cant play lazy then go turn it on at these tourneys. As for the girls... the ones i had said something to wree the ones who asked me to watch their swing to see whats wrong.. And yes our co ed team is fun... we joke laff crack on each other and enjoy being out there...but we play hard and take it serious. if you wana jack around sign up for the b league.. We have and never will make fun of another team.And as for being stacked we have the same core team week end and week out... and have the same prob all co ed teams have ... girls! Neal of all people to get on here and start crap with "your opinion" amazes me... i guess the next time we play.. we will just swing at all the stuff you throw nowhere near the plate.. then if we lose to you guys... it will never go away cause youll tell the world.. but since we wont play again i guess we both get off lucky. And one final thing... when you throw pitches oputside.. theres 2 things that happen.. the ball either gets hit up the middle.. or you walk... so if we walk on outside pitches.. isnt that being nice to the other teams pitcher...
	Rsummers July 17, 2007 5:49:10 PM Entry #: 2267282	Upon further review Neal!!!!! No guy took a walk last nite except the intentional walk you gave to Doug and the one Lester took instead of dusting your ass up the middle... So why all the crying about walks?
	N.T.S July 17, 2007 6:26:57 PM Entry #: 2267341	Mr. Rob, I never said anything about last night, about anything... I was merely talking about in general... And as far as B league goes, sorry but last time i checked you can't just request it...you should know that... if you want to play so serious, go play in $$$ tourneys all the time. I also apoligize that if everyone elses opinion is crap to you, but just like you,we have them. Just to let you know, everyone was suprised as hell that only 2 or 3 walked with the intentional, I give YOU props on that Mr. Rob. That has got to make it to the record books! If it doesn't I'll be suprised...Because I know that everyone is the same they want to swing the bat. And after further review Rob!!!!! (ha,ha, funny) I wasn't crying, merely stating my opinion... You and everyone have a great week!
	N.T.S July 17, 2007 6:55:03 PM Entry #: 2267387	And just to Holla out to the Time Out Team, I wasn’t directing my opinions towards anybody except for Mr. Rob… From talking with all of you from time to time you guys seem alright! just thought I’d mention that before it gets all twisted on my ass… Again, have a great week!
	Rsummers July 17, 2007 10:56:17 PM Entry #: 2267734	Well to end this on my part.. Neal you dont know me or know anything about me... as far as our co ed team.. we have the rite to play how we see fit and will take care of ourselves.. funny no one has quit our team for being to serious... if you play for us you know your gona play hard.. so we will be in league for a time to come..so you can request b league if you like and ill try to accomadate you.. but i dont think your team will agree. And if you look at our stats none of our guys are walking at all.. we come to swing and do. But if we did walk youd complain that were running up the score.. but when we do swing you still complain about the score... And finally i realy dont care what your opinion of me is... dont worry much at all... i play how i want .. and ill play hard.. just keep pitching outside and ill keep swinging.
	Tyson July 17, 2007 11:24:41 PM Entry #: 2267767	WOW! YOu people have damn near burnt me out on softball, this website is a great idea, but I wish the message board would be done away with so all this bitching wouldnt happen. This was a complaint thread, and turned into a I bet you cant do this and I bet I can kind of thing. WEll you know what, my dad can beat up your dad and I can jump higher than you guys cause I have new Nike's. Grow up people please, no one cares about your teams record or if you can hit a girl that pitches in college. I'm young and took in everything that went on out there as an umpire and a scorekeeper and then decided I wanted no part of it because the way some of you act is plain ridiculous. I know you pay money to play and all this but you that doesnt give you a right to be rude or disrespectful to an umpire. Questioning something like a ball or strike is coimpletely useless considering it is not something that can be appealed. Judgement calls are what they are, live with them, continue playing the game the way its supposed to be played and have fun!
	Solson July 17, 2007 11:56:44 PM Entry #: 2267804	I didn't know B-League was the red headed stepchild of softball...LOL
	N.T.S July 18, 2007 8:52:17 AM Entry #: 2268119	Well Mr. Rob, I don’t know you, I’m sure off the field your probably a good guy. But on the field your arrogance and high and mighty attitude sucks (just the opinion that I have formed from watching you play against our team and others). As far as B League goes, that was your suggestion (“if you wana jack around sign up for the b league”), not mine, or the team I play for. As far as complaining about the score, I haven’t nor has anyone on the team, my thought is that when you are kicking our asses, play ball and keep the game moving… My thought is your team can play good ball, but when their coach (Rob)is up to bat with his bat on is shoulder on a 3-1 count looking at the ump “waiting for a strike” (but can’t see it coming because he’s looking the other way on purpose) that’s unnecessary, especially when your up by 15+ runs… Anyway I probably approached this the wrong way, but it wouldn't be the first or the last time for that one...If so, I sincerely apologize. Have a great week everyone....even you Mr. Rob...
	Rsummers July 18, 2007 9:36:52 AM Entry #: 2268223	Once again Neal you speak without fact.. that wasnt me who stood with their bat on their shoulder... And lastly in all the games we have played mec i have 0 repeat 0 walks... So if you wana gripe about something please have your facts straight.... then we wont have to even have this discussion. So say goodnite gracy!
	N.T.S July 18, 2007 9:48:47 AM Entry #: 2268242	Ok, I shouldn't reply but I will... Last time we played you(not this week), Marty was pitching and I was playing 3rd, your team was up by close to 20 runs, you did your statue of liberty impression, and took the walk. If you remember, while you were arrogantly trotting to second I said to you "Boy its a good thing you took that walk, cause its a really close f*cking game huh"... and you mumbled something under your breath... not that it matters but there's one example...(if you want facts look at the game stats I repeat the game stats(ha, ha)... Have a great day Mr. Rob...
	score keep July 18, 2007 12:23:08 PM Entry #: 2268612	im saying this, Neal you have the right to be mad about anything you want in life but if what happens in slow pitch softball from months ago is your biggest fight then maybe you need to take a step back and look at a bigger picture. Rob, i score keep im an impartial part of the game i've seen people on your team be asses, i've seen the new league director freak out on someone twice, once and umpire and another tom anderson for asking if he could hit the same ball. your teams sportsmanship could be in question sometimes i was there when a player on your team turned his back to the pitcher on a 3-1 count..that maybe funny to you and your team but to the other team its disrespectful. Add that on with the fact that your team is the best team in your divsion and your gonna have people gripe and not like you. Some of these problems would go away if some people on your team would handle their business better. Jerry Springers Final thought...No one likes to be shown up.. your grown people, act like it have fun playing softball but always rememeber its just softball.
	N.T.S July 18, 2007 1:42:21 PM Entry #: 2268803	I'm done... I will be a good boy now...
	TBowles July 18, 2007 1:48:31 PM Entry #: 2268815	Score Keep he did not get into it with tom about the balls we were hitting new balls that we discoverd at hibbit and they are hottttttt and tom thought that we had done something to the balls so all that he was stateing was you can find them at hibbit for 6.95 a ball and if im correct they sent someone after them during that game... So there was no big blow up about the balls..
	score keep July 18, 2007 1:53:51 PM Entry #: 2268832	alright mybad on the ball thing then..
	Rodan July 18, 2007 1:56:00 PM Entry #: 2268841	Well put score keep and NTS. I too am an umpire and have witnessed bad sportmanship in this league, juiced teams against hapless ones etc. Does one really think that beating up on these "not so good" teams will help you in tourneys around the area? Doubt it seriously. Witnessing the "so called new director" of the league go postal on an umpire on the final out of the game which was not even close "as usual" demonstrates to me, the unability to manage a group of teams in a league. And telling this umpire that he went off on he wouldnt come back next yr because he made a good call at the end (ball bobbling at first), so what?? He actually can't put who he wants out there to ump unless Marion pulls out of ASA umpiring. I too wont be back next yr. Carb, Murphy and kids games go way better than adult leagues. Ill emphasize to my collegues about Marion at our next meeting.. No, Im not perfect either, but I give it my best and get along with most of the teams.
	N.T.S July 18, 2007 3:14:45 PM Entry #: 2269021	I apologize totally for my posts starting yesterday, it was just a tiff between me and Mr. Rob... I in no way intended for umps to quit or anybody to get upset... With that being said... I would like to take this time to say that I do enjoy playing in this league, and I am thankfull that Mr. Lester Bowles took over when Mr. Dan needed to step down. I think that the League is run very well and am sure it will continue for many years to come. I truly appreciate the chance to play in the Marion league, and I hope to do so for years to come... Thanks again
	TBowles July 18, 2007 3:17:02 PM Entry #: 2269027	Stacked team this is the same team we have had all year the same team we take to all the tournaments we play in as well. and we are not that stacked we had our buts handed to us and got short gamed in st.louis but i mean we just have people that love to play and they just happen to be really good players. anyone can go out and find players i mean are we supposed to make every team equal i just think that saying we stack our team up is rediculous because we have the same players week after week and trust me we have got beat. it just blows my mind that people are complaining about staking teams up. if it is that big of a deal about teams so called Staking then go out and find new players form yourself a STAKED TEAM... We pay our money just like everyone else all we want to do is come out and have a good time just like everyone else without catching all this stupid stuff about us being staked and beating teams by 20 runs. And i personally have had a blast this summer playin in all of the leauges. So i mean come on people lets cut all this crap out and just finish the year on a good note.
	deats 12 July 18, 2007 4:54:09 PM Entry #: 2269287	i really cant believe what im reading on here...rodan???? for the last time our team is not juiced...if you knew any of us at all you would know that all the guys play on the same mens league team...we are all friends that go out to eat and go to tournaments together...we have a great time and just love the chance to be able to get out and play...and what league would u recommend us play in since the marion A league isnt fair??? and i guess Lester is the only person in the league that has ever argued or griped about a call?? so lets single him out and get online and vent about him...and for everyones information lester and that umpire have since talked and both apologized for being out of line...but once again you speak out of context because you dont know the facts...but obviously everyone knows that anyone that puts on a timeout jersey must be a total complete asshole because of this years success....this is bullshit....id like for some of us on here to put on their big girl panties and quit whining!
	m. joyner July 18, 2007 10:28:42 PM Entry #: 2269841	IN MOST PART UMPIRES HAVE DONE A GOOD JOB. I HAVE ONE GRIPE THEY NEED TO CALL THE GAME THE SAME AT ALL TIMES. WE HAD AN UMP CALL A STRIKE ON A DEEP BALL, WHICH WAS BALL 4 AND SAY YES IT WAS A BALL BUT YOU DIDN'T WANT TO WALK(OUT LOUD) THIS WAS IN A TWO RUN GAME LATE INNINGS. THE GUY FOULED OUT NEXT PITCH. MOST PART UMPIRES DO GOOD BUT THIS WAS A TERRIBLE CALL.
	whoa calm down dougie (score keep) July 18, 2007 10:28:47 PM Entry #: 2269842	doug man calm down it'd be alright. a stacked team wasnt the main focus on anyones discussion it was people having problems with sportmanship. theres no one a lesser team wants to beat then the leagues best,when you play agaisnt them you try harder and sometimes wear your hearts on your sleeve..everyone knows that..but its 20 times more frustrating when a team that you have respect for has players that do things that might be taken as disrespectful. I mean like i said im an impartial part of the game and i've seen things from teams that if i were a player on the other team i would have problems with.
	score keep July 18, 2007 10:41:22 PM Entry #: 2269856	also not trying to cause problems but if teams like all nations and knights of colombus and time out pub's co-ed team arent considered juiced then i dont know what juiced or stacked means..in all honesty when u have guys who can hit homeruns almost everytime there up or hit to the fence or if u have girls that field there postions well and hit good too then in coed u might be a stacked team...thats no ones fault..but to be in denial about it isnt good...occurding to this logic the yankees have never been stacked the patroits arent stacked the detroit red wings arent stacked nor the detroit pistons...? come on.
	Tyson July 18, 2007 11:43:21 PM Entry #: 2269937	You know you guys could all settle your little girl problems if you played a mans sport, PLAY HOCKEY!
	HOCKEY HOCKEY HOCKEY HOCKEY HOCKEY July 19, 2007 2:56:03 AM Entry #: 2270014	HOCKEY SEASON IS THE BEST BECAUSE IT JUST IS.. MY CAT JUST FARTED. I'VE NEVER HEARD A CAT FART. ANYWAYS, IF ANY OF YOU GIRLS WANNA COME OUT AND PLAY A REAL SPORT THEN COME ON...UNTIL THEN UR ALL HOSIERS...SEPT FOR DAN AND JEFF..BECAUSE THEY PLAY AND THERE A LOT BIGGER THAN ME. HO.IS.ER orginated in canada, back in the day the losing hockey team would haft to hose down the ice. So you see it is a digrautory comment.
	rodan July 19, 2007 12:36:35 PM Entry #: 2270837	whats this about a fight last nite in marion??? umpire and player? Wasnt there but would like some insight.
	L Bowles July 19, 2007 10:05:05 PM Entry #: 2272100	tyson and kevin....I would love to play hockey with you guys last time i played i got sent to the office in high school for dislocating a guys shoulder for checking him into the wall.....if you let me skate with regular roller skates not inline skates i would love to give it a try...I am sure i would get my butt knocked off but atleast it would be fun......
	hahaha bring your quads...kevin July 19, 2007 10:27:54 PM Entry #: 2272142	HAHA thats bad ass they shouldnt have'nt sent you to the office for that they should have made you there enforcer. Yes lester your more than welcome bring those skates and come out and have a good time.
	thomas anderson July 22, 2007 10:38:09 AM Entry #: 2275075	just wanted to reply on rob the stacked teams and the competitive play.first me and rob dont always see eye to eye but his team is not stacked.i had ox and doug on my team last year and they were average they just came out this year slugging partly because of all the practice they do.there girls are phenominal but they always have 2 outs in their lineup.this league is a practice for them because they travel and i was always taught you practice how you play.your right about the run up of scores they really shouldnt be that serious considering they havent had a close game.the balls they use are loaded we bought a couple and i hit a home run at first bat if that tells you anything.its really a unfair advantage to the other teams .everyone needs to use the same balls.paying a extra 50 dollars added on tothe league fees is crazy.4years ago it was $500 to play and they supplied the balls and that was with don rebuilding his buisness.i like dan how you wrote down alot of the costs but there was some numbers missing,it was probably the the pay for you three organizing the league but its nice to see where all our money goes.in close i do think you guys did a pretty good job this year.oh dan thanks you probably did the right thing.tp your getting burnt out take a breath give a verbal warning then boot them if they do it again.been through that alot of times,getting the warnings that is.trust me it will be accepted.never quit keep slugging.
	L Bowles July 22, 2007 1:24:25 PM Entry #: 2275222	Tommy 1st thanks for the props we do work hard at our games to get better but we have a long way to go as fact this weekend in Indy.....as far as everybody hitting the same balls i have no problem supplying balls for the league but it will come at a cost what that is i dont know yet but i would like to keep the league fees at a min. so maybe we could get somemore teams in the league i dont know how much cost is a factor but i think it plays a part....Please i ask anybody who has any ideas to PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE come to the meeting so we can get alot of this worked out.....I have alot of ideas on how to make the league a better place to play but 1 person can not do it alone....again thanks and i look forward to seeing you at the park
	TP July 22, 2007 7:28:27 PM Entry #: 2275600	Tom, U R right I am burnt out! But a lot of these games esp. co-ed I took because no body wnated them and Doug H. talked me into it. Than I had so many calls to do legion,youth, and several van horn tournaments and very many late nights with a regular job. God forbid if I really had to do real work like we did at c-max. Really its not all about giving up! I just want to keep what is more enjoyable and best paying! And that is legion, youth ect...Tom I know a lot of you take that league seriously, I take my fantasy football about as serious as it gets. I remember when I was at Chester we all got together and played sb after work, just choose teams and had good games and no one fought over a call and we made our own calls. We had good times as fellow co-workers. I dont know what will ever solve the marion league complaining? Maybe you guys should hire that Tim Donaghy guy to get ur umps. Thnaks for your opinion but I just wont argue balls and strikes anymore. I offered all 8 of my future dates to all the other umps, I was able to get rid of tomorrow to lisa. This indicates that no one wants to bother with it. The more you guys complain and argue with umps the more that will drop out of doing it. Bottom line Tom is it isnt worth the the time to me, 15 per game! I make $50.00 for a legion game. $40.00 for 1 youth league game and they bring me water when i need it, feed me after the games. I can take 1 writ to cook county and make more than I did all summer up there! Plus like I siad it isnt enjoyble for me. I ref and ump because its a way for me to stay in sports. I get paid and get exercise at the same time during basketball season plus I get to see a lot of the area's best talent night in and out. Tom put in for a transfer and get outta your work stress, that is the reason you are stressed at the games. get outta the home of the hook up!!!! Come on over to paradise!!!!!!!!!!!
	Ohney July 22, 2007 9:21:49 PM Entry #: 2275782	Lester, I'm looking forward to you running our leagues. I do have 1 question. How could you not defend the 3 league officials that are supposedly skimming $$ off the top. You know that the 3 receive no $$. To Tom. I don't know who you are but you make yourself sound like an A**hole. There is a button up at the top of the page with our league finances in it. Look it up. Are we supposed to give up our $300 bats for you to. Do you still use 1985 technology. Our league fees are the lowest priced around because we supply our own balls and the people running it don't get paid. And if you are a competitive ballplayer every umpire is an idiot. Whether they are or not. Lets get off their back before they ban Marion and we have to call our own games.
	DReid July 22, 2007 10:31:12 PM Entry #: 2275917	To Tom Anderson, If everyone has the same opportunity to purchase the same balls, how can it be an unfair advantage? That really makes ZERO sense. I put up many posts and told everyone at the league meetings what I thought were the 2 best balls to buy for the league and where they could get them. The balls that we used last year were very good balls (not as good as the 2 I talked about for this year) and were pretty cost effective. But the league supplying them is a much larger hassle and there were still a lot of complaints because some people couldn’t hit homeruns who thought they should have been able to and HR’s were down from previous leagues. So if people want to hit better balls, they can pay for it. Just like if they want to swing a better bat, they can pay for it. The last league that Don ran I believe it was $630 + the $30 ASA Registration fee. He gave 18 games + a league tournament and did not make up even half of the rainouts. Last year was $630 + ASA Registration with 24 games and all rainouts made up. This year was $615 +$30 registration fee with 24 games BUT balls were not supplied. I explained CLEARLY why I was raising it $15 per team (balls in 2006 were $30 per team) and that was because of the Ameren rate freeze and the unknown of what was going to happen with light costs. Everyone who spoke up at the meeting agreed that it was a good idea and no one expressed any problems. I SERIOUSLY doubt that it was $500 for the league 4 years ago. If that were the case, that meant that in 2 years he went from $500 to $615 for league fees because that is what it was the last year he ran the league. If it was $500, the number of games where no where near what you get now. Now, I have NEVER taken ANY pay from the league in the 2 years I’ve ran it except for 2 nights when I had to umpire and for when Tyson hasn’t been able to put out the bases and I’ve done it, which I’ve paid myself what they get paid. That is it, period. To make a comment like “but there was some numbers missing,it was probably the the pay for you three organizing the league” is EXTREMELY MORONIC. To ever hint, imply or say that I’m taking money from the league really shows how uneducated you are on the subject that you’re talking about. Or in other words, talking out your ass. You can go on the league website and click on “Bank Account info” which I try to update every month or so. I’ve kept it updated since I took over the league. If you have any questions, you can always feel free to ask. But don’t ever hint at or imply that I’m taking money from the league without reporting it. That’s really just stupid.
	L Bowles July 23, 2007 7:19:11 AM Entry #: 2276165	Ohney i need to brush up on my reading skills i just went back and re read what tom had posted i guess i did not fully understand his post on the fees I know that Dan Rob and John have NEVER got paid a dime for what they do with the league I can see where Dan is a little bit pissed about that post.....Bottom line is this I said i would take over (that is such a bad way to put it ) the league because I LOVE the game and dont want to see it die here in Marion I dont or would not take any money for doing this neither would Rob or John.....I hope that all the people who have something to say show up at the meeting so it can all be discussed....SORRY for not taking your back on that Dan Rob and John guess i need to pay more attention to what is said.....
	are we suprised? July 23, 2007 10:25:35 AM Entry #: 2276495	Tom just keeps showing his true colors.. m o r o n
	question. July 23, 2007 10:56:54 AM Entry #: 2276572	one day Tom is verbaly degrading fellow players the next he is accusing the league directors of stealing money...!!?? At what point does he get ban from the league, or at least from the message board?
	Tyson July 23, 2007 11:40:22 AM Entry #: 2276685	Wow Tom Anderson does his best to make friends, eh? By the way wasnt Tom Anderson the name of Beavis and Butthead's neighbor??????
	thomas anderson July 24, 2007 12:01:43 PM Entry #: 2279113	Dan sorry if you thought that i was implying that you were stealing from the league.The people who know me know i never imply and i never beat around the bush.I honestly think you guys are running the league great.I also really expected for the three people to receive payment for their services.For you not to recieve any payment for your services wouldn't be logical.Don was the only person i was 99% sure was skimming.As for the balls your right but I don't think anybody knew about these new balls rob and lester found.Theyre called dudley thunder and these balls are better then the legend balls.As for the name calling come on this is ridiculous.I am actually great full for you taking my message off.It was childish for me to backlash on a computer screen.If anyone would like to discuss my personality or attitude I would be more then happy to talk to you in a nonconfrotational mannerism.Im retired from that game.Also when you use my name dont be afraid to use your name I dont bite.Anymore.
	DReid July 24, 2007 12:33:53 PM Entry #: 2279192	Actually, they're the Dudley Thunder Advanced ball. Here is a link to where I talked about them. Also, Miller Lite were the first (and I think only) team in the Men's league to get those balls (because of my recommendation). And everyone saw a difference in distance and speed of those balls and some have now bought them. Dudley Thunder Advanced
	July 24, 2007 4:54:53 PM Entry #: 2279864	You all should be ashamed of yourselves. That Tom Anderson is a wonderful human being. He's just misunderstood.........at times.
	anderson July 24, 2007 6:07:09 PM Entry #: 2280007	NICE TRY FRAZEE.HA HA I JUST NEED TO BE HELD SOMETIMES.
	DReid July 27, 2007 1:52:14 PM Entry #: 2285949	Quick correction. The league this year was $615 which INCLUDED the ASA registration fee. Not $615 + $30.

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