As a youngster, I played in Little League, Pony League, and all sorts of amateur baseball programs growing up.

I learned a valuable life lesson that summer. You should find something in life that you really enjoy and seriously consider making that your life's work.

Looking back on those games, I probably hustled out of position as much as I hustled into position since I really never had any real training. I was working on instincts alone.

After one year in the Texas League, the American League bought the rights to my contract. They optioned me back to the Texas League for the 1970 season.

I attribute my success to my mental approach to the game. I have always been a serious student of umpiring. I enjoy studying rules, situations, and positioning.

If you don't think every day is a great day try going without one.

As a youngster, I played in Little League, Pony League, and all sorts of amateur baseball programs growing up.