PDA

View Full Version : Forum Terminology Question

chief951
03-01-2009, 10:57 PM
As I read through the various topics on this forum, I have seen the term "Smitty" used on numerous occasions. Judging by the context in which it is used, it seems to have a negative connotation in describing an umpire’s ability. Can anyone explain the origin of this term?

Just curious.
BT_Blue
03-02-2009, 04:43 AM
Not sure sure about the origins but you would be correct in thinking that it is a negative nickname. Which is why it baffles many of us why an umpire equipment company would call itself Smitty.
mstaylor
03-02-2009, 05:04 AM
I am not 100% sure but I believe it was coined by a regular poster on many of the boards by the name of Carl Childress. He used it to cover the guys that had 1 year of experience 10 times or more. It has come to cover a multitude of things guys can do.
ExCop
03-02-2009, 01:06 PM
A Smitty isn't just a "bad" umpire. We all started from nothing, and have developed and are still developing and improving our craft. A "Smitty" doesn't improve over time.
bobjenkins
03-02-2009, 01:43 PM
Not sure sure about the origins but you would be correct in thinking that it is a negative nickname. Which is why it baffles many of us why an umpire equipment company would call itself Smitty.


"Smitty" is also the name of the lanyard that clips on a basketball official's shirt. That's where the company name came from.
MCLEOD36
03-02-2009, 02:59 PM
Childress liked is when he added "OLD" to Smitty. That was precious, he went from never wanting to be called that to having it an endearing term. Smitty is like wearing one white sox and one black sox; or wearing black soxs with Crocs LOL
BT_Blue
03-03-2009, 04:46 AM
"Smitty" is also the name of the lanyard that clips on a basketball official's shirt. That's where the company name came from.

didnt know that. dont work basketball. But thanks for the useful information.
robbyrudd455
03-04-2009, 03:05 PM
didnt know that. dont work basketball. But thanks for the useful information.

Smitty also makes baseball uniforms... which are actually pretty good shirts and pants.
DerekD
03-04-2009, 03:59 PM
A "Smitty" doesn't improve over time.

Why would he? He knows all.
Elfordo
03-06-2009, 11:50 PM
Yeah, My favorite umpire pants are my Smittys. I still chuckle at the name when I put them on, but I like 'em.