I disagree with “The kids can ump” (Editorial, April 25). I don’t think that such young boys should be umping peewee baseball games.
This does give the boy umpires a small amount of responsibility, but there are downsides to “the young umps.” As you should know, some parents get a little too involved in the game. Because of this, the young umps may not be able to handle the criticism of the parents.
Also, because the umps are so young, they have no authority with the adults or with the players.
The young umps may also feel the pressure of parents, players, coaches, family and friends.
They will feel the social pressure to favor a friend’s team, or not favor a rival’s team.
Will the umps be able to handle a coach “getting in their face” about a bad call?
At the ages of 12 and 13, I don’t think that these young umps are ready for all it takes to ump fairly.
