Elk River Youth Baseball Association hosts umpire clinic for youth

by Jim Boyle

Editor

More than three dozen youth baseball players turned out for an umpire clinic on Saturday, April 6 to learn the finer points of umpiring baseball games.

Veteran umpires Norm Witteborg and Chris Hinkle worked with 42 kids at the four-hour clinic. Those that completed the training and work a minimum of five games will get and keep a complete umpire kit paid for by the Elk River Youth Baseball Association.

Witteborg and Hinkle make calls behind the home plate of travelling programs, high school baseball games, town ball games and American Legion action. They know all too well the struggle of finding umpires to officiate games.

The instructors were pleased with the kids’ attention and with their responses. “They were very inquisitive,” Witteborg said.

The training was free, and it will include mentoring throughout the season from Witteborg and Hinkle.

“We’re always short of umpires, especially in the house leagues for the little kids,” said Witteborg, who has the difficult job of scheduling umpires for both games and make-up games. “It’s hit or miss. (And when there’s not an ump at a game), it’s not a good experience for the kids. Sometimes, parents are called upon.”

The youth at the April 6 clinic play travelling baseball and have a general understanding of the game. Umpiring requires another level of understanding, Witteborg said.

“Once they get out there, I think they’ll appreciate the game better,’ he said. “It the win-win for both sides.”

Witteborg said about half the kids who came were 12 or 13 years old with the other half being 14-17 years old.

The clinic helps youth work toward MYAS certification. The players also have access to training videos and can make $50 a game for regular season games and more at tournaments.

The clinic included classroom work and on-the-field training with plenty of chances to ask questions. Through mentorship, Witteborg and Hinkle hope to prevent youngsters from developing bad habits. They also believe by helping them find success, they will remain umpires for longer.