EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION

1. KEEP CALM   

 The ability to remain cool in stressful situations communicates to others  

 a sense of control and maturity. Never rush things and become flustered. 

 Think clearly, prioritise options and decide the most appropriate action. 

         

2. TREAT PLAYERS WITH RESPECT     

 Umpires earn respect. Treat players in a manner you would like to be treated.

 Never talk down to or patronise a player or official. Do not use the term, "I'm 

 the umpire, what I say goes."     

         

3. USE POSITIVE BODY LANGUAGE

 Use positive body language, be interested, smile and make eye contact. Never 

 intrude into a player's personal space. Don't point your finger or be aggressive.

 Be confident with your signals and sell the decision.   

         

4. LISTEN ATTENTIVELY      

 Communication is a two way process. Participate actively, be attentive and  

 acknowledge or respond to the players words or feelings. A question or comment 

 by a player in a rational, mature manner requires a positive answer. 

         

5. COMMUNICATING DECISIONS

 Competent Umpires communicate their decisions effectively and confidently. 

 Players appreciate Umpires who are strong and concise, they have a lot 

 more confidence in Umpires when they know and understand what is happening.

         

6. DO NOT EMBARASS PLAYERS   

 Never embarrass or belittle a player or official. Work at not being the centre 

 of attention.      

         

7. PENALISE ACTIONS  

 At times you will have to caution a player. When communicating this focus your

 comments on the action not the players character or personality.  

         

         

8. SELECTIVELY IGNORE COMMENTS     

 Not every remark requires a response. Some are made as a natural expression

 of frustration. Ignore the remark at the time and follow up at a later stage if 

 deemed necessary. This is very important if the player is angry.  

         

9. AVOID SARCASM   

 Sarcasm is a barrier to effective communication. It serves only to hurt the feelings

 or reduce the self esteem of others. It is un-professional and has no place in 

 Umpiring       

         

10. DO NOT TRY AND HAVE THE LAST WORD   

 You will not change a Player's mind, your answer should be brief and direct 

 and provided in a calm and respectful manner. Let it go after that.