BBF: OFFICIALS OUTLOOK

The British Baseball Federation (BBF) is the National Governing Body of the sport of baseball. One of our (BBF) requirements as the NGB of our sport is to oversee our umpires (officials). "Officiating (umpiring) is a vital part of our Strategic Roadmap to promote participation in our sport, said a spokesperson for the BBF. Without umpiring there would be no organised baseball games or leagues."

In 2019, we have a new BBF board member, Gabor Erdos who is our elected Officials representative. Gabor has experience at all levels of baseball umpiring (youth and seniors) and nationally, as well as internationally.

"Gabor will be the lead person in planning and organising our Officials strategic plans," said a spokesperson for the BBF.

As part of our roadmap for the development of officials, we will concentrate on three essential elements:

• Recruitment

• Education

• Communication

RECRUITMENT

The BBF has embarked on a national campaign to recruit new officials (umpires), in becoming recognised NGB umpires. Recruitment for umpires is both for men and women, starting at the age of 18.

We aim to recruit more umpires into our sport. Umpiring requires commitment, the opportunity to give back to the sport and in the process you can earn some money.

To learn more follow the link or other section Recruitment in this online article.

EDUCATION

The BBF will be arranging FREE Umpire Clinics throughout the year for all (BBF or non-BBF affiliated). Our Umpire Clinics aim to provide insights, knowledge about the rules, interact with some of most experienced umpires (lead instructors) and answer questions. The mentioned will be lead by some of our most recognised umpires. There is no cost to attend a BBF Umpires Clinic. For example, on the 23 and 24 February, the Kent Bucs are hosting an Umpires Clinic supported by the BBF. The Clinic will include separate segments on different days (one for beginners and another for experienced umpires).

Anyone attending our clinics will be asked to register on our national database, so that we can keep track of their participation. Umpires attending our clinics and who have umpired more games will be evaluated and acknowledged by the BBF, in skill level and experience. Annually, the BBF chooses umpires for its top events and endorses umpires to officiate internationally (e.g., Youth Tournaments, CEB and National Team Competitions), so those who have the most experience or knowledge by attending our courses will be acknowledged nationally and internationally.

Further, the aim of our clinics is not just for those who want to be officials, but for coaches and players. That is, by attending our clinics it pre-empts disagreements, arguments (on and off the field) and minimises the drain of taking the fun out of the game, so we encourage all to take part in our clinics. Rules change year to year, and without a strong foundation or knowledge of the rules, the enjoyment and your experience are challenged to take part in our sport.

COMMUNICATION

Starting in March, the BBF will roll out a communication plan which is part of our roadmap to build participation in our sport. Inclusive in the plan is a section for umpires. This snapshot is peek into our communication plan. The umpire section will include insights, how to become an umpire, umpires schedules and general knowledge about umpiring. Our communication plan will deliver our messages to develop more interest in the importance of knowing the rules, becoming an umpire, and develop your appreciation for our umpires.

For more information about umpiring (rules, questions, recruitment) or our clinics (taking part or hosting) email

BECOME AN UMPIRE

BRITISH BASEBALL FEDERATION UMPIRES RECRUITMENT CAMPAIGN

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If you are 18 years or older, man or woman and want to give back to the game of baseball become an umpire. You can get in shape and even earn some money.

What is takes to be an umpire

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To be an umpire it takes an understanding of the game of baseball, leadership, good communicaiton skills, objectivity, clarity, and dedication to improving your skill and experience. However, if you are inexperienced and are interested we (BBF) are here to help you evolve in becoming an umpire. Annually, there are over 1000 games of organised baseball played in Great Britain from youth and seniors leagues. So, there are plenty of opportunities to umpire games at all levels. Games are mostly played on the weekends. Join us, and be an umpire, where you will never look at our sport the same way again. Your contribution as an umpire will certaintly make a positive impact.

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As your participation, skill and experience grow, so does your recognition. Annually, the BBF recognises our top umpires to officiate games nationally and internationally. As a result, of your recognition you can go on to umpire internationally some of the top tournaments and see the world. So be a part of the umpire ranks, and inquire now, how to be an umpire. There are opportunities to umpire both youth and senior or both. Beginners are welcomed. If you have questions about officiating email