Since it’s inception, the Mid-American Umpire Clinic
has produced some of the nations top young talent. Nine students have gone to the 5-week professional umpire schools,
one finishing at the top of his class, and six have been placed in professional or independent minor league baseball.
Here is what some of our graduates have had to say about the
Mid-American Umpire Clinic.
"Just wanted to thank your staff for the very informative
clinic. I've worked a handful of games since returning to Ohio and can't believe how much better I'm seeing close plays due
to better angles and positioning learned from the clinic. My comfort level behind the plate has increased dramatically and
therefore I feel that I'm seeing pitches more clearly. Yesterday I worked my first college level game (D-3 scrimmage)
and felt pretty comfortable. This week I'll be working some of the Ohio State Buckeye's inter-squad scrimmages."-Ryan
Thompson, Rockford, OH
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"I just want to thank everyone for all of their help and
patience during the clinic. I am talking about every student as well as all of the instructors. Each and every one of
you were there to improve and it showed. I was nervous (to say the least) about going to this clinic and being railed on for
3 days about how bad I was and who of us wants to pay money and be away from our loved ones to be yelled at and told you suck
for 3 days. I was impressed by how positive the instuction was and I never saw any type of petty jealousy or any of
the I'm better than you attitude on display."-Clint Lightle, Weaubleau, MO
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"I want to thank you and your staff for a very instructive and enjoyable weekend; I had a great time…the session
on the psychological aspect of mental preparation was awesome. With the staff you have, it makes this a very successful clinic.
Everybody is on the same page, which makes it easy for us to go to anyone of you with a question and you will all have the
same answer."-Craig Rupp, Grand Island, NE
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"I would like to say thank you for a very informative and
PROFESSIONAL CLINIC. All the instructors were top notch. Since the clinic I have worked several games and have never
seen the ball any better in my career. I have had comments from numerous catchers and coaches about how consistent the strike
zone is, which I very seldom received before. I attribute those comments from being at a top notch UMPIRE CLINIC, with a staff
that is very knowledgeable. THANK YOU!!!! ."-Richard Johnston, Norwood, MO
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"I want to again thank the
entire staff for their instruction at the clinic. Leaving the camp I felt that I was twice the umpire that came to the camp,
and working HS games this year has reaffirmed that in a big, big way. I've also been doing some adult leagues and gotten some
very positive feedback."-David Dick, Madison, WI
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"Jason,
you and your staff are the best thing that has happened to me in my career to this point. I got everything out of this
that I was looking for plus much, much more. I am glad there are people out there like you guys who are very good at
what they do, but don't want keep all their knowledge to themselves. It says a lot about a person who can accomplish
as much as you guys have and still keep in mind what it was like when you started and share all your knowledge with the guys
who are trying to learn this business.
My favorite parts of the clinic were the plate work mechanics, and the
class room discussions on professionalism and how to handle situations. Watching the tape on my first five pitches and
how I was set up and called pitches on Sunday was a BIG difference, it is amazing what a few changes can do to your appearance,
confidence, and consistency.
Again I really appreciate your time and effort (as
well as your staff). You guys are knowledgeable, passionate, and professional. Thank you very much and I WILL
be back next year and I will encourage everyone I talk to or work with to join me as well."-Brock Culler, Grand Island,
NE
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"I just wanted to say
thanks for all your advice and help, this past weekend. I picked up so much from all of you all; from my plate work
to mental preparation to professionalism.
That much information for that cost is
incredible, surprised it didn't cost twice as much.
Thanks again, and I will definitely
be seeing you guys next year."-Jim Evans (the better looking one!), Gravette, AR
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"I was VERY impressed with the whole
weekend. From the very beginning it was obvious that you and your team of instructors are passionate about umpiring.
Jason -- I'm a big believer in being a good communicator. I want to commend
you for doing a great job of communicating. From before I registered to the time I arrived at the clinic you let me
know everything I needed to know. Great job!
Your manual is never far from my side - it seems I'm in it whenever I have a free
moment."-Heath Kramer, Lincoln, NE
