Officiating.com: Has being related to the president of the umpire’s association hurt or helped you during your first few years?

Blair: I think it has helped more than anything else. There are two reasons for that. One, I have direct access to one of the best umpires in Canada. I’m obviously biased, but other people feel the same way. So I’ve had the advantage of talking to you about umpire things. But it's gotten in my way also because you have a reputation from years ago; and when I mention that I am your brother, I get the rolling of the eyes kind of thing. This year I learned from that and just didn’t tell them I was your brother! I think it may also hurt because some people may say that the only reason I get some assignments at higher levels is because I am your brother. So, there is that element. Now, nobody has ever come right out and said that, but I am aware that perception is alive. Despite that, I think overall it has helped because I have taken advantage of your availability to discuss my umpiring, and most often it has helped me understand why I was making mistakes and how to improve.

Officiating.com: You are starting to make a progression as an umpire. What is it specifically this season that is making umpiring easier?

Continued...