Becoming An Umpire - again

quote:

Originally posted by 3T's Dad:
I have enjoyed this message board for sometime now, however never posted anything. I began umpiring 15 years ago and then moved on to coaching for the last 10 years. I have decided to get back into umpiring this coming season. I will work games from ages 12-16 for our local rec and Babe Ruth leagues. What can I do to move on to the HS level within the next year or two?

There is no need to wait. Contact your local HS umpiring association now. If you don't know who to contact, ask a local HS AD or coach.

Most HS associations have training programs.

If you want to go beyond what your local association offers for training, there are a number of amateur, HS and Collegiate level camps and clinics from which to choose.

Do a search on umpiring camps and clinics and check out those that may be close by. Jim Evans does a great job with week-end and one week clinics in addition to his five week pro-school. There are a number of other week-end or one week camps run by NCAA umpires and former MiLB umpires.

Welcome back.

I would agree with Jimmy and if you act fast you can probably catch the signups and training going on for the start of the HS season underway (or about to) at most of the umpire associations. If you are intimidated by jumping into the HS level then contact your local Little League or Pony League and start out working some Jr games or Colt or Pony games. Also get a rulebook and start reading it daily. Contact your local High School(s). They will be running scrimmages soon and would be more than happy to have you out to work some of their scrimmages…trust me the catchers will love not having to call the game. There are tons of opportunities for umpires as they are always in short supply. Also forgot get your gear in order and make sure you are properly equipped. If you walk on the field properly equipped, and look like a professional you will gain immediate respect, if you look sloppy you will be treated sloppy. Have fun and keep us informed!

quote:

Originally posted by 3T's Dad:
I have enjoyed this message board for sometime now, however never posted anything. I began umpiring 15 years ago and then moved on to coaching for the last 10 years. I have decided to get back into umpiring this coming season. I will work games from ages 12-16 for our local rec and Babe Ruth leagues. What can I do to move on to the HS level within the next year or two?

Welcome back to Umpiring!!.........This all depends on your local situation, but here is what I would recommend... Find your local HS chapter, and make contact with them. As said before, often times they have clinics and training programs that you can get involved in...

You do want to start getting your NFHS rules knowledge underway.....HS rules are different than OBR based youth leagues and you will have to pass a test to get certified....

Take stock of your umpiring education.....Know that at HS and higher baseball you will be required to know the proper mechanic systems....

Uniforms and equipment..........if you have been out of umpiring for a long time, you probably need everything....Dont skimp on protective gear...if you are planning on doing HS games, you dont want to take a HS Varsity fastball off the Chest protector you used for 10 year olds....Buy Pro gear...it will save you money in the long run....

A High quality mask and CP are imperative....shin guards and plate shoes are a must as well...

Buy the uniform items your HS wears....Correct Umpire Pants and Shirts.....

I am not sure of what levels you are used to umpiring, but if you have experience with 13-14, 15-16 year old Rec youth ball you should find that comparable to Freshman and JV levels of HS ball....

Let us know how it goes.........!!

best of luck...

You can go staright to HS as mentioned but if you feel more comfortable staying in youth ball for a year or two to get your head back in the game, there's nothing wrong with that. When you buy gear, buy the best you can afford, it is cheaper to spend more now and having it last than to buy cheap and having to replace it in the next two years.

Thanks for all of the info. Just to get my comfort level back I think I will look into a clinic. Is there a book or something I could pick up locally that will help me prepare for the clinic? I will keep everyone updated on my journey back. Thanks again.

send me a PM, I have some HS specific books I can send you...

Welcome back, enjoy. I feel better knowing I have a replacement. Keep reading, asking and working, you'll be hooked again in no time. I did both, (coaching and umpiring) for lot's of years, 31 umpiring, 17 coach-n, and playing the whole time. Due to some health issues I did nothing but adult league SB last year, first full season with no BB. I have lots of fun doing SB but it just doesn't have the same draw for me as BB.

I'm stepping out. Won't be working this season. There I said it, been mulling it over since Sept. Haven't even officially notified my assoc. yet. Better hurry though before somebody reads this.

Trying to coax the grand studs out for T-ball, that's right. I'm crossing the line again, I can't wait.

3Ts'Dad, good luck.
I'll sure swing in here now and again, for sure and encourge you to do the same these's folks are good.

quote:

Originally posted by jjk:
Welcome back, enjoy. I feel better knowing I have a replacement. Keep reading, asking and working, you'll be hooked again in no time. I did both, (coaching and umpiring) for lot's of years, 31 umpiring, 17 coach-n, and playing the whole time. Due to some health issues I did nothing but adult league SB last year, first full season with no BB. I have lots of fun doing SB but it just doesn't have the same draw for me as BB.

I'm stepping out. Won't be working this season. There I said it, been mulling it over since Sept. Haven't even officially notified my assoc. yet. Better hurry though before somebody reads this.

Trying to coax the grand studs out for T-ball, that's right. I'm crossing the line again, I can't wait.

3Ts'Dad, good luck.
I'll sure swing in here now and again, for sure and encourge you to do the same these's folks are good.

JJK,
Sorry to hear about your health issues, I hope some time away from the game will help you get back on top.

I just wanted to thank you for your years of assistance on this website. You have been an excellent reseource and I am grateful for your knowledge and professionalism...

I would hope that you would stay here as an active poster and assist us going forward....your experience and rules knowledge cant be replaced easily........and new guys like 3T's dad can always use a mentor....

Best of luck! and many thanks partner!