Is it hard finding umps?

[ApogeeDemon]

I have had several T.D.'s say that they are often making calls at the last second to find umps. Is it not worth it? As a side effect, are the "bad" umps being used over and over? I know that people say that umps are evaluated but I have never heard of an ump not getting a weekend job. I have seen bad umps at the same parks every single year. I have even had coaches say, "Oh no, not this guy again." All the coaches in the park know which umps are bad. Are we running out of umps in Ohio?

 

[crystlemc]

Honestly, after watching the behavior of a few coaches, a couple players, and a whole lot of parents, there isn't enough money for me to umpire.

 

[jpkeating]

One thing I will say on this subject, is I've seen allot of "older" umpire's. I think we could use some younger umpires.

 

[SoCal_Dad]

I have had several T.D.'s say that they are often making calls at the last second to find umps. Is it not worth it? As a side effect, are the "bad" umps being used over and over? I know that people say that umps are evaluated but I have never heard of an ump not getting a weekend job. ...

How much the TD is paying for umpires can be a factor. TDs that pay below the prevailing rate have more trouble getting umps, especially the better ones.

 

[daboss]

Umpire fees are one of the largest expenses for a TD and I've pointed out for years if people continue to belittle those willing to take on the task our sport would suffer. Most of the issues stem from baseball fans that believe they have some kind of duty to abuse those calling the game. While fastpitch has tried to retrain the masses and accept less abuse, it's hard to make change to a hundred years of mindset. What can we do? I'm not sure there is an answer but to throw even more money at those willing to officiate. I'm sure you didn't want to hear this but it is what it is.

Younger umpires are practically non-existent while individuals with personal issues seem to be drawn to the umpire ranks like moths to a light. With the pool so shallow, shallow beings are getting the work. Keep in mind it only takes a few to ruin it for everyone and I feel your pain. I believe the older umps are there for the love of the game and that's why they continue to be seen weekend after weekend. Until we possibly see some old players transition to officials it may be money that keeps any of them around.

Keep this topic in mind this season and consider the alternative. If the pool becomes too shallow the only fix will be less tournaments. Try treating the human beings that are still involved with some mutual respect and be sure to thank them for their efforts. Let's hope those individuals that are there for the wrong reasons see the light and become better officials to serve the game. After all, it's about the kids and they don't pick their parents.

 

[Fairman]

Daboss I agree with you.

I would like to add that some of our older umps are excellent, age has nothing to do with quality. The experience that some of these folks bring to the game is tremendous. Sure they may struggle getting into position or the eyes aren't what they were 20 years ago but their knowledge can be vast and more than make up for any infirmities. Some of our senior umpires are the best around and I love them to call our games.

 

[gcg3refs]

As an assignor, finding umpires who have passion to umpire is practically non-existent nowadays. Most of the umpires have never been to a camp to "Learn how to umpire" and are only there for the money. Senior umpires usually are the ones that still have passion for the game, but when they lack the hustle to move out from behind home plate when working the dish, it may be time to hang up the mask. The "bad" umpires that are at tournaments year after year are the ones who are "always available" and therefore get assigned to games. Most tournaments, the umpires are usually getting anywhere from $25 - $35/game, so pay may have something to do with it.

 

[northmontthunder]

Well I can tell you that as one of the few younger umps. I was very disappointed with not getting the calls like I did my first year. I would have gladly taken a weekend tournament but non was offered. I am ASA certified and High school certified. I think I am the only one in my area who is certified under 30 years old past there 1st year. So to get into the traveling area, I went through Little league to go do the state tournaments. So for me it seems like there was no need for younger umpires last year in the travel area. I do think that at the high school level in my area they are really needing new umpires from the emails I have been receiving.

 

[KO123]

It is all about start up. Young men and women just dont have the funds to get started nor the patience. Costs:Class $75 as well as 6 weeks of one night a week for 2 hours. Have to attend a clinic on a weekend(at own expense) Equipment $500(Cheap), Uniform $400(Pants, a few shirts, hats, etc) and if you go ASA or NSA you are looking at another $300 respectively each association. With other expenses it is roughly a $1500 out-of-pocket start-up. Then if you can make it past that you have to work your first year not really having any game experience and all the coaches and parents acting like fools. It is not an easy path for sure.

 

[gcg3refs]

Agreed, it is not cheap to get started, but as a young umpire, Do Not Give Up. Work all levels of any games you can get, someone will notice you, use proper mechanics, hustle on all plays - You Will Get Noticed and the calls will come.