How old must I be to be eligible to umpire?
To comply with Illinois Child labor laws, an umpire can be 13 years old and umpire a baseball game provided they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. (Must be 13 years old by 4/1/08.) An umpire 13, 14 and 15 years old must obtain a work permit from their High School.

What paper work needs to be completed prior to umpiring my first game?
1) Completed Umpire Application
2) Signed copy of the Umpire Code of Conduct
3) A work Permit from the High School (if you are 13, 14 or 15 years old)
4) Completed Division Open-Book Rules Test with a passing score of 85%.

How Do I get assigned games?
Prior to the season an open date game schedule will be sent via e-mail to all umpires to fill out their availability. This allows umpires to check their other schedules to ensure no conflicts. The Umpire Coordinator will then complete the season schedule prior to the beginning of the season. Games will be assigned based on age, experience and previous evaluations. Umpires will be grouped into one or two division again based on experience and age.

What happens if I find out that I have a conflict with my game?
Use the provided phone list to try and find a replacement. Once you find a replacement, you must call and e-mail your Age Group Coordinator of the change.

What happens if I have an unexcused absence from a scheduled game?
You will be warned and fined $10. If you miss another game, then you will be fired.

How much will I be paid per game?

How Do I Get Paid?
Upon the completion of each game, the umpire will completely fill out their card and have the winning manger or coach complete the evaluation portion and sign the card. It is the umpire's responsibility to then deposit the tickets into the umpire box located in each equipment box. It is also the responsibility of the umpire to make sure the card is complete prior to depositing the card in the umpire box. Incomplete cards will not be paid. Checks will be mailed every two weeks from the start of the season.

How long before a game should I arrive?
All umpires are expected to arrive at the field 20 Minutes prior to game time.

Dress Code: Looking the Part is the First Step to a Good Umpire!
The Oswego Umpire Shirt is the only shirt acceptable-One shirt is provided at no charge.
- Additional shirts cost $6.50 ea.
- Shirts must be tucked-in
- Blue pants or blue shorts
- Blue or black jacket can be worn in inclement weather
- Blue or black ball cap
- Umpiring shoes or gym shoes
- No Cut-offs, sandals, headbands or sunglasses(behind the plate) are allowed.

What do I need to bring to my game?
-clicker (1 provided)
-watch
-jock strap
-water
Shin guards, masks and chest protector will be available in each equipment box. However, feel free to use your own equipment if available.

How do I know if a game has been cancelled due to weather?
You can contact your Age Group Coordinator. We will try to reschedule original umpires for all make up games.

What happens if a parent, player or coach gets out of hand?
All coaches are responsible for their players and parents behaviors. Consult either coach and have them handle it. Report all extraordinary instances to the Umpire Coordinator immediately following the game.

How Do I know when to stop a game due to bad weather?
If the field has not been deemed unplayable by the School District , but inclement weather has occurred or appears imminent and the game has not yet started, the coaches shall agree on the appropriate action. If the coaches cannot agree, the home plate umpire shall make the final decision regarding play-ability.

Once the game has begun, the home plate umpire shall make the final decision regarding play-ability. If you see lightning---Stop the game immediately.