What Type of Training Do Umpires Need?
by Steve Mattingly

Do you recall the lyrics from the classic song by Queen, "I want it all, and I want it now."? With that phrase in mind, I ask, how much and what kind training should an umpire seek? What does an umpire have to do to get to the next level? At what point in an umpire's career should the umpire expect advancement?

"Training, we don't need no stinking training!" some declare. On the contrary, umpires need some form of continuing education. I remember reading an article by nationally renowned umpire, Jon Bible, stating, "No matter how little or how much experience an umpire may have under his/her belt, training is essential."

I was excited to read that even a seasoned umpire believes all umpires should be seeking some form of continuing education. It doesn't mean umpires should always attend annual clinics, although it's not a bad idea. But continuing education doesn't have to be reserved only for yearly events. Training can take place in various formats; before and after the game, peer evaluation, local Association meetings, umpire message boards on the Internet, and constant communication with fellow umpires are just a few of the ways continuing education can take place.

However, there is a catch to the above comments. The information being gained by an umpire or being taught to the umpire must be quality information. Whether the information comes from a clinic or a post game evaluation out in the parking lot, I believe that quality training and quality information produces quality umpires, and a primary objective of any umpire should be to increase their competency level. On that note, I am a strong advocate that competence increases confidence, and for an umpire to be successful they must possess those two characteristics. To borrow a phrase, if you have been taught that if your car doesn't start, try changing the tire, it doesn't matter how many tires you change, the initial instruction you received is flawed. In order to do your job effectively, the training you receive must be valid, relative and easily transferable.

I believe there are two types of training clinic umpires desire.

1. Training Fundamentals
Whether basic or advanced fundamentals, this method of training enhances the umpire's abilities and increases the chances for advancement. Training fundamentals provides the necessary tools so the umpire can do his job effectively.

2. Training That Allows Umpires to Advance Through Politics
Another method of training, and I am sure to catch some heat on this one, is attending clinics solely for the purpose of getting some politicking accomplished. "What? Mattingly, are you saying umpires spend their hard-earned money just to get in good with the powers to be?" No, I am not saying that at all. But I do believe it does play an influential role in an umpire's decision on which clinic he will attend.

To be sure, the student will attend the clinic and training will be accomplished. But what concerns me, in my experience of training umpires around the world, is that there are many umpires who seek training through these rose colored glasses, "What can this clinic do for me with reference to gaining new assignments and/or advancement?" They're not asking a more basic fundamental question, "Will this training provide me with the ability to maximize my potential as an umpire, and allow me to advance through my own abilities as an umpire?"

These motives are not advertised nor implied by the clinic owners, but are often assumed by the umpires attending. An umpire's decision to attend a particular clinic is often filled with the false hopes of getting more Association assignments, NCAA conference assignments, and/or post-season assignments.

That said, it is reassuring that there are clinics around the nation that offer quality training with no other incentives (e.g. Jim Evans Academy of Professional Umpiring Desert Classic and Florida Classic, Harry Wendelstedt School of Umpiring, Ed Hickcox Umpire Clinics, Arizona Umpiring Academy, etc.).

When you're considering your next clinic, I encourage you to do your homework and research what best suits your umpiring needs, and not your desires. Be honest with yourself and attend a clinic that will enhance you umpire skills on the field. If you do that, I am confident that the supervisors in your local umpiring association will take note.

What does an umpire have to do to get to the next level? At what point in an umpire's career should the umpire expect advancement? Get your pencil and paper out; this statement is worth its weight in gold. Nobody cares how much you know. They want to know how much you care. With that in mind, let your umpiring do your talking for you. Don't tell everybody within earshot where you've been and how good you are as an umpire. Work hard. Be a good listener. Accept constructive criticism from other umpires. Be consistent on the field. Be patient. And strive to get all the experience you can . . . and then some.

Quality training does not guarantee 100% success on the field, but it will provide an umpire with a competence level that can and will create confidence. Which, in turn, creates success.