Connor O’Brien Date of Event: 4/10-4/12

Table of Contents  Overview  Ed Ld connection  Pre event  During event  Post event  What went well  What could've went better  Photos  Lessons learned  How this will help moving forward

Overview  For my capstone project, I hosted and was in charge of the details for a softball umpire school that was held in Rochester April th. The event brought in 50 umpires from around the state for the weekend school. The event provided certification for the individuals who attended which allowed them to ump each event hosted by the American Softball Association

Overview  This opportunity presented itself through my new job, and I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to connect my sports background with a educational setting. Hosting this event gave me a great experience in dealing with educational pieces as well as leadership through sports, which the field I hope to get into.

How this connected to Educational Leadership  The idea of leading an umpiring school appealed to me for many reasons as my capstone project. First, my aspirations are to get involved in athletic administration in a school setting. This was the perfect opportunity to gain experience hosting an educational setting which pertained to athletics. Second, I learned many important aspects about being in a leadership position and why extra curricular activities are so important to helping educate our youth. It showed me by running a quality event, academics and athletics can be intertwined.

Pre-Event Coordination  There were many details I had to help organize prior to the event. We first had to arrange the instructors for the event  The instructors detailed their curriculum they would teach and what their needs from my end were.  After this we went through the registration process which allowed umpires from all over register for the school. I created a form and an online registration link. The ASA organization sent this out to their database to generate interest in the school.  As the host organization, we were responsible for coordinating the instructors travel itinerary.

Pre-Event Coordination  I had many duties in preparation before the school  These duties included the facility, and room reservation, travel coordination, AV setup, organizing teaching materials, coordination of graduation ceremony, finding local kids to help with instruction sessions, and assisting with on field training.  The classroom sessions were held at a local hotel in downtown Rochester.  I coordinated a bus service to and from the hotel and their off site field.  Teaching materials included putting together packets and providing informational booklets.  I arranged local softball players to come and help with on field demonstration

Here is the registration form I sent out through the American Softball Association to promote registration. Form contained schedule of weekend events.

During Event  I was very busy doing a variety of tasks during the event.  I started Friday night by checking in the students. The instructors held breakout sessions the first night.  On Saturday, I was responsible for setting up the classroom equipment and tools they needed. I also coordinated transportation and a lunch Saturday for the attendees.  On Sunday, I aided in some classroom work, as well as coordinated the transportation, and then helped at the certificate presentation at the end of the weekend, which was held at a local restaurant.  I was present the whole weekend for any on site requests or needs.  Helped to assure everyone was learning and getting the most out of the school

Post Event  Post event, I followed up with the instructors, they were very happy with the event and said they were very pleased with the information they were able to cover.  I submitted the final registration list to the school to give ASA verification.

This is the post event survey provided by ASA for the attendees, it asked about specific lectures. The data is being complied and will be presented to the instructors and ASA.

What went well?  As the event lead, I received multiple complements from students as well as instructors. They were very appreciative of what I did providing the necessary teaching tools and settings.  The instructors ASA brought in for this event were excellent. They were very engaging and shared real life experiences along with their teaching points. They were able to give a great mix of classroom instruction as well as in the field practice.  My favorite exercise they used was going through a line up drill, using volunteers in the class to demonstrate. It was active and engaging as well as entertaining

What went well?  As the lead on this event, I thought I added some value that helped make this event special for the attendees.  We ordered fleece jackets and bag tags for the attendees.  I also ordered a large banner for the school to give it proper branding.  With the help of my work organization, we were able to provide a free lunch on Saturday for everyone.

What could've went better?  As with any event, I think there were a few minor details that always could've went better.  Parking was a bit problematic. With the event held downtown Rochester, there weren't many options available.  Due to some time limitations with the time, I think there could've been a bit more information covered on certain topics

Photos from the event Students look on as the material is being presented. The event had about 50 students.

Students work on their trade as the instructors observe and teach.

Umpires preparing for on field drills Umpires in the classroom

Shot of the umps after lunch Class Photo

School Banner

Post Evaluation Survey  Overall the common themes from the responses we gathered were very positive. The on field sessions were ranked by attendees higher than the classroom sessions. The live line up drill was rated highest of the classroom sessions. Some negative general comments dealt with the parking situation, and confusion on how to get to the classroom. Some positive comments dealt with the helpful staff, the engaging instructors, and the venues.

Lessons I learned  The most important lesson I took was how important it is to provide and have access to the right resources in teaching.  Another lesson I learned observing this event was the importance of being engaging as an instructor, and how much more the students take away.  I learned a lot about little details and how a great deal of time can be spent coordinating the minor details for an event like this.

How this will help moving forward  Hosting this event provided me an outstanding experience for me moving forward, as I will be involved in many similar events as my career continues.  I took away many details that contributed to holding a useful class/learning environment  Hosting this event provided me the confidence to take the lead in other similar events.  As I move forward in athletic administration, I see the continuing need for educational opportunities for coaches, players and even official's and umpires like this one.