Umpire Car Vandalized
Donation protected
Hi, I’m John Douglass.
- I’m a high school baseball umpire in Denver, Colorado.
- Last week, my rental car was severely vandalized after I ejected an assistant coach for leaving the dugout, entering the stands, and repeatedly harassing the home plate umpire. He literally entered the stands behind the backstop where he commenced the illegal unsportsmanlike behavior. His team lost 10-2. Apparently, it was the umpires fault. * sigh *
- I’m raising funds to cover my insurance deductible. And, of course, my insurance rates will be increased. Any amount in excess of the deductible will be donated to a local youth team from an under privileged area.
- The incident occurred in a small dirt and gravel parking lot of a small country school on the eastern plains of Colorado. There were no cameras. No witnesses either.
- As many of you know, facilities are not provided for the umpires to change in and out of our uniforms and gear, so we’re forced to park close to the fields or, more often than not, in parking lot with the school buses near the vehicles of spectators and parents.
- It’s not difficult to spot which are the umpires cars.
- After completing a doubleheader, my partner and I returned to our vehicles. The damage is significant, all four quarter panels and the hood, so the car will have to be repaired and repainted.
- The was obviously was an act of rage, rather than random.
- I placed a criminal mischief report with the county police. I submitted an ejection report with the Colorado High School Activities Association ( CHSAA ) to include the vehicle damage. I contacted my assignor. I notified the athletic directors from both schools.
- The rental company is placing a claim with my insurance carrier, so I’m just trying to cover the cost of this petty, senseless damage.
- Verbal and physical abuse against sports officials is on the rise nationwide. But I certainly didn’t expect property damage.
- It’s no wonder there is a shortage of officials, referees, and umpires.
- I thank you for donating.
Organizer
John Douglass
Organizer
Denver, CO