“HEY, WE NEED AN UMPIRE…”

Sometimes, just before a game starts, you may hear this statement. A scheduled umpire may not make it due to traffic, missed ferry, or scheduling conflicts. Often, especially at the AAA levels, it’s because we don’t have enough volunteers willing to do this important job.

Many people think they are not “qualified” at first, and for some upper-level games—acting as a single umpire—they are correct. But anyone, with a little training, can umpire at any level, AA through Majors.

There is no game without somebody agreeing to umpire and call balls, strikes, safe, and out. Sometimes coaches fill in, but they already have enough managing the game for our kids. Most importantly, without an umpire, there is no game.

Role of the Umpire

Umpires are the official representatives of Little League on the field. In addition to applying the rules fairly, the umpire is responsible for:

• Starting and ending the game
• Ensuring player safety
• Keeping the game moving on schedule

Benefits

Being an umpire is fun and rewarding. Responsibilities and perks include:

• The only authorized party on the field besides players and coaches
• Helping ensure a safe and fair game
• Getting the best view of the action
• Free food and drinks from the concession stand during your shift

Training

Our umpire crew includes both experienced and new umpires. There are several ways to get started:

• Team up with an experienced umpire
• Read the rules – contact the UIC for a copy of the Little League Rule Book and Umpire Guide. Online resources are also available at littleleague.org
• Attend a training session:
  • District 2 hosts a day-long Spring Umpire Training Clinic the first Saturday in March at Olympic College
  • NKLL offers local training classes as needed
• Contact the Umpire-in-Chief (UIC) for more information

Scheduling

Umpire scheduling is flexible. Umpires select games in advance through the Umpire Scheduling Calendar. Ideally, NKLL likes to have both a plate and at least one base umpire. Majors and AAA games require an umpire for the game to proceed; AA games are preferred to have an umpire.

What to Wear

NKLL provides basic protective equipment: mask, chest protector, shin guards, jersey, and cap. Umpires generally wear grey or dark pants, black belt, black shoes (not cleats), and black socks in addition to the safety gear. Personal protective gear is recommended.

Many umpires purchase some of their own equipment. To help offset costs, NKLL has an “Umpire Bucks” reward program.