Want to become a certified Baseball Umpire? We are always looking for new baseball umpires in all areas of the province.
Umpiring can be for anyone, of any age or gender. Whether you are a baseball fan, a young baseball player, an elite level player looking to stay in the game, a coach looking to get involved in a different aspect of the game, a parent looking to umpire with your son/daughter, or an official from another sport looking for a summer officiating option… umpiring is for you!
BENEFITS OF UMPIRING
Umpiring baseball is a rewarding hobby and part-time job. Baseball umpires get the best view there is of the game we love! It's the only way, other than actually playing, to be on the field and part of the game. You are outdoors during our beautiful Ontario summers, and challenging yourself both mentally and physically. You will meet new friends who share your love of baseball, and will become part of the umpiring community! And especially for younger umpires getting started, it's a great part-time job and a way to earn extra money while doing something you love.
GETTING STARTED: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW OLD DO I HAVE TO BE?
This varies based on local association needs, and an individual’s situation and experience. In general, 12 years old is a typical age at which many young people begin umpiring.
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
WHAT TRAINING WILL I RECEIVE?
You will learn the basics of umpiring, including essential rules, 2-umpire positioning techniques, umpire signals and mechanics. There will be 2 components to your training:
- Online Umpire Learning Course: This course is comprised of a series independent learning modules. You can work through the modules at your own pace. Total expected time to complete the online component is 2 hours.
- Umpire Development Camp: This 4 hour active, fun instructional camp will teach you the basics of umpiring. These in-person camps are hosted by local associations, but you will select your Camp when you register with Baseball Ontario.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Baseball Ontario Level 1 umpire registration is $30.00. Payment is made through your local association after you have registered with Baseball Ontario. There may be a small local fee as well. In general, you will earn back your registration fee within your first game or two, and some local associations provide incentives or fee rebates to umpires.
HOW MUCH WILL I GET PAID?
This varies across the province. In general, a beginning umpire might expect to earn $15-$30 for an entry level house league game, and rates increase with experience and level of play.
HOW WILL I ADVANCE?
You will advance through 2 years of Level 1 training, and 3 years of Level 2. Each year, you will take a different Online Umpire Learning Course, geared to your specific level. You will also attend an Umpire Camp yearly. After 5 years of progression, you will be eligible to become a Level 3 umpire.
WHAT SKILLS OR EXPERIENCE DO I NEED TO GET STARTED?
While some prior knowledge of baseball is helpful, it is not necessary. We will train you! All you need is a positive attitude, willingness to learn new things, and confidence. You don’t have to be an athlete as long as you commit to hustle and work hard to move on the to the best of your physical ability.
ACCELERATED ADULT CERTIFICATION PROCESS!
Each year, we run an Accelerated Umpire Certification process for people 18 years or older with significant experience either playing or coaching baseball, or as an official in another sport. Through this process, participants receive the equivalent of five years of training in rules, positioning, and game management and upon completion are certified as a Level 2.3 umpire. The program involves 12 hours of live online learning with Baseball Ontario Senior and Master Conductors, followed by a full day in-person, on field camp.
REGISTER TODAY
