Volunteers are the core to the success of Ballard Little League, and that includes game day umpires for both baseball and softball. Ballard Little League has opportunities for both adults who are able to donate their time and for juniors (ages 12 to 17) who are looking for community serve hours or get paid. No experience is required to participate in the Ballard Little League umpire program. Umpire training, resources and equipment will be provide.
HOW TO APPLY TO BE A VOLUNTEER UMPIRE
Step 1: Complete Volunteer Application Form. Log into your BLL online account. Click "Volunteer" on the menu. Click "Find Volunteer Opportunities". All volunteers register through one of our baseball or softball programs. Select a program. Select a division (it does not matter which one for your umpire application). Scroll over and find the role "Umpire". Answer the questions and submit.
Step 2: Contact Ballard Little League Chief Umpire, Dave Trop, at [email protected] or (206) 852-7110.
Step 3: Your name will be added to the email list where you will find out about upcoming events and training opportunities.
If you have a youth interested in Junior Umpiring, here is more information.
TRAINING / CLINICS
Ballard Little League and District 8 provide pre-season training for all umpires. Clinics are offered in the areas of Little League baseball and softball rules, field mechanics, game management and umpire equipment and positioning in the one and two person umpire system. Clinic dates, times and locations will be added once they become available.
In the spring of 2022, BLL Umpire Dave Trop recorded a training video of a rules clinic for BLL. You can find the link to the video online here. It is a great resource for new umpires with BLL.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why does Ballard Little League not pay for adult umpires?
Little League is a leadership program to teach life lessons to boys and girls through baseball and softball. Just as coaches and board members get involved for the benefit of the children in our community as volunteers, officials have the same opportunity to be there for the benefit of the youth players. BLL goal is to make the game safe, fair and fun - in that order - and we need adults who share that goal and will always bear in mind their first responsibility is to set a great example for kids (and adult) in our community. It is also important to show youth players that there are adults who care about the sport and the youth players and will support them with their time freely.
What do I need to work a game?
Complete training. Comfortable shoes. A smile on your face.
Can I work my child's game?
Absolutely. You get the best seat in the house to watch your kid's game. We trust that our umpires are fair and honest in all situations.
How big of a time commitment is this?
You set your own schedule. Umpiring 3 to 5 games per season is a HUGE help to the league. Ballard Little League allows you to scheduled the games you want based on your availability and the umpires you want to work with.
What if I don't have the gear?
You don't need much. The league will provide a hat, umpire shirt, a counter and protective gear for when you are ready to get behind the plate.
RESOURCE LINKS
Rules Resources: Umpire Registry - Little League
District Training Announcements (these will be disseminated by email)
Suggested Gear Sites
Baseball and Softball Umpire Equipment | Ump-Attire.com
Gerry Davis Sports: HomeGerry Davis Sports: Home
Baseball Umpires Equipment, Umpire Gear, Shirts, Uniforms, Clothing and Accessories | Smitteez Sportswear
Baseball Umpire Uniforms | Softball Referee Clothing | Honigs
Making the Call: Your Decision to Umpire Little League - CLICK HERE
Little League University: Resources for Umpires - CLICK HERE