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I started umpiring here in Southern Utah two weeks ago, and my evaluations have been extremely positive. In my first game, I worked the plate, and the arbiter did the bases. After the game, he said he was very pleasantly surprised. The one comment that sticks out in my memory was, "That was not a typical first game behind the plate. You worked it like someone who has been doing it for years."
It may seem as if I'm writing to boast, but I'm not. I'm writing to say thanks. I know I could not have gotten this far this fast without the invaluable training I received from the Arizona Umpiring Academy.
In post-game evaluations over the past two weeks, veteran umpires I've worked with have said things like, "That was the correct mechanic in that situation. Who taught you that?" My reply: "I learned it at the Academy." I've said that so often that a few days ago, a guy I've
worked with a lot said, "You learned things in one weekend in Arizona that took me five years to learn by trial and error."
I am grateful to you guys for the time and effort you put into the Academy. I know you're not getting rich (I've done the math), so a lot of your payoff has to come from the knowledge that you're training competent, confident umpires. You've certainly done that in my case, and I appreciate it. I look forward to my next visit to the Academy.
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| "As a newcomer to the Arizona Umpiring Academy, I am absolutely swept away by the program that has been assembled. I have been attending umpiring clinics and seminars for over fifteen years, and have never seen anything close to this. From the carefully thought out and researched teaching techniques Steve and his staff use on the field, to his fun and innovative style of teaching in the classroom, to Mark's hard work, dedication, and diligence on the administrative end, to the years and years of experience of the staff-members, to the hands-on, friendly, and personalized style of training, the Academy has been a long time in coming. It's way ahead of its time! I personally guarantee that this is the best training available for aspiring umpires of any background." |
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| "The Arizona Umpiring Academy, guided by Steve Mattingly, provides the most comprehensive level of instruction in Arizona. All umpires, no matter what their experience level, will benefit by attending an Academy training session. Steve Mattingly provides quality education with integrity and attention to detail. You will not find a more knowledgeable and dedicated instructor. The best training available in the state of Arizona!" |
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