A Long Day On The Diamond

The image to the left will be my view for most of the day as I gather the umpire gear and head out to a fun tournament to help raise funds for a great community centre. While the diamond I'll be working on has more dirt, less lights, and less scoreboards, there's something magical about being outside on a gorgeous, sunny day, chatting with players and teams who show up year after year, and watching some fun slo-pitch ball being played. I almost wish there were more opportunities like we'll have today.

I saw "almost" because it is a long day with just two umpires working two diamonds for the entire tournament. With 13 games scheduled - 12 for each umpire plus the final - it's a very long day to be on one's feet all day. Combine that with needing to stay hydrated, moving around on the field, and re-applying sunscreen every few hours to compensate for the heat that is masked by the breeze today, and it could be a long, hot day with few breaks for the officials in blue.

You won't hear me complain, though, as the people are wonderful who run this tournament, the people who play in the tournament embrace the idea of fun, and there are usually a lot of laughs during games with and between teams. This is one of those tournaments I'll never say "no" to working because the people make it so great, and the weather is usually phenomenal during their fundraising weekend. There is a call for showers, but I'm thinking they'll stay away.

Get outside today and enjoy the weather if you're in my neck of the woods. Heck, even if you're not, get out and get some sunshine as your body is likely craving that vitamin D. I'll be getting a massive dose today, and I'm hoping that I won't be too tired to come home and watch the Abbotsford Cancuks wrap up a five-game Calder Cup championship. That would cap off the day nicely if it happens.

We'll be back tomorrow for more hockey chatter, but enjoy the day, folks. The blog is closed while I call balls, strikes, and outs, so find your way out into nature and the sun and soak it in as well!

Until next time, keep your sticks on the ice!