Why Umpire?
For those serious about umpiring, USSSA Softball umpire training is the best available in any sports organization today. National, regional, and local mechanic schools and rules clinics are scheduled each spring and in many cases in the fall for new umpires beginning at that time of year. Training is similar at each level, as described in the USSSA Softball Umpire Manual. Whether plate mechanics, base positioning, signals, working with players and coaches, or just tips in umpiring, the Manual is the most complete training guide available. To assist the local training official, USSSA Softball provides training aides through a Clinic Guide, instructional videos and presentations, school mechanics drill cards, an umpire examination, meeting quizzes, and a “Case Book.”
Insurance for USSSA Softball umpires is by far the best for any sport or organization and includes a $5,000,000 liability policy and accidental injury policy with maximum benefit of $100,000 for any accidental injury arising out of the amateur softball activities (including clinics and schools), and games, leagues, and tournaments involving USSSA Softball registered teams and when working Scholastic, (Middle school, High School, NFHS) and Collegiate (NCAA, NAIA, NJCAA, etc…) softball events. The medical expense coverage is provided on an excess basis. It also includes an accidental death and dismemberment policy, as well as a dental coverage that will pay the actual expense incurred for treatments to sound and natural teeth, with a $500 limit for each individual tooth.
An umpire uniform and leisure wear program is available so that each registered umpire can purchase and wear the official USSSA Softball uniform with pride. Whether it’s the shirt, cap, pants, shoes or ball bag or any of the variety of protective equipment, or optional wear such as sun glasses, the USSSA Softball umpire program has it.
USSSA Softball registered umpires are selected to officiate in metro, state, regional and national championships.
Yes, it pays to be a USSSA Softball umpire! From expert training through being rewarded for individual umpire achievements, USSSA Softball offers the most to help umpires achieve their goals – to be the best they can be, and to reach the highest level their skills will take them.