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Often an overlooked aspect of the Little League program, umpiring is
one of
the most important. The volunteer umpire is as much a part of Little League as
the volunteer manager, coach or concession stand worker.
There is no sound reason for paying umpires, or any other person whose services
should be provided on a volunteer basis. Many districts and leagues have found
successful ways to operate volunteer umpiring programs, helping to defray the
costs that might normally be passed on to the parents. Some leagues provide new
equipment or uniforms to umpires to use in performing their service to the
league, then the umpire can retain the items after a certain period of time.
Little League also offers many training materials, clinics and seminars on
umpire education, as well as the Little League Umpire Registry. The registry
allows volunteer umpires to receive regular mailings from Headquarters on rule
interpretations, updates, etc.
Who is responsible for the conduct of umpires? First and foremost, it is the
umpire himself/herself. Each of us in Little League must take responsibility for
our own actions. However, umpires are appointed by the local league president
and approved by the local league board of directors. Only the local league board
of directors has the authority to dismiss or suspend any local league umpire
from regular season games.
A select group of volunteer umpires whose knowledge, experience and demeanor
have received recognition at top levels of Tournament Play are invited each year
to officiate at one of the World Series tournaments. In keeping with the
volunteer aspect of the local league, travel expenses for World Series umpires
are borne by the umpires themselves.
The District Administrator is responsible for nominating umpires (those who
volunteer their time to local Little Leagues within the district) for upper
level tournaments. Most umpires who reach the pinnacle of youth sports
officiating (one of the World Series of Little League Baseball or Softball) have
been volunteering their time to local Little Leagues for a decade or more.
The Umpire Registry also maintains an updated file
of members, providing an excellent referral resource to league officers and tournament
directors.
Umpires also receive:
Copies of all Little League Baseball Rule Books
A copy of The Umpire in Little League
A copy of Little League Baseball’s The Right Call
An official Little League Baseball Registry Identification Card, Certificate and Patch
Subscription to The Umpire Registry Newsletter, Fair Ball
A listing in the Little League Baseball Registry of Umpires
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