Softball Umpire Certification
Certification by the International Softball Federation (ISF) qualifies an umpire to officiate at world and regional championships and the Olympics. Softball expansion into the developing world gives certified umpires the opportunity to travel to train new officials to call the game.
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Amateur Softball Association
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Apply for certification as an ISF umpire with the Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA). Mandatory attendance at an ASA field clinic to learn the mechanics of umpiring and satisfactory completion of the Umpire Rules test qualifies the umpire for admittance into the local ASA.
Networking and Training
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Once admitted, seek out working umpires, and attend the clinics and camps available to increase your knowledge of the game. Increase your visibility by networking within the regional and national organizations to increase the opportunity to work important games.
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Required Experience
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Held every two years, ISF's Certification School requires umpires to attain the highest evaluation available when working national championship games or achieve the rank of "Elite," the highest standing awarded by ASA.
Attaining ASA's Elite Status
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"Elite" status requires an umpire meet the following requirements: work at least four national championships, with two games in the same category (fast pitch, slow pitch or modified pitch); attend an ASA-approved National Umpire School or Advanced Camp; and be a member in good standing of ASA for at least seven years. The umpire must complete all forms provided by ASA, and submit them with the signatures of the local association commissioner and the umpire-in-chief. Verification of the information provided is completed by the regional umpire-in-chief.
Certification School
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Once accepted, umpires attend a five-day International Softball Federation school. Umpires attend classes teaching rules and mechanics (positioning, stance, ball rotation, etc.). Instructors observe and evaluate umpires in a variety of settings: drills, live games, case and mechanics play situations and classroom examinations. The umpire's final examination consists of working behind the plate with a live pitcher or pitching machine. A cumulative score of 90 percent or higher is required for certification.
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References
Resources
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