For many umpires, the ultimate goal is to be
selected into the elite group of Canadian Championship officials. But
what does it take to get there?
- Clinics:
you must ensure you have taken the appropriate certification clinics.
Also, remember that you must attend a clinic every two years in order to
be eligible to attend provincial & Canadian Championship tournaments.
- On field:
you must be evaluated by your ZUIC or zone staff. This is crucial for
improving your game. Be open to suggestions and listen carefully to
what the evaluator is telling you. Don't be discouraged by constructive
criticism - the evaluator is there to help improve your game.
Consistency on the
field is the difference between the average official and the elite
official.
- Communication:
you must let your ZUIC know of your goals & intentions. This will allow
your ZUIC & zone staff to assist you in getting where you want to go.
- Be available:
to work in-zone tournaments. This will lead to working the provincials
and eliminations.
- Hard work:
Canadian Championships, especially majors (Midget, Junior & Senior)
are very long & intense weeks which last 8
days. Every game is a high pressure game and the officials need to be
crisp on every pitch in every inning. Officials at Canadian
Championships can work up to 17 or 18 games in a week. You must
demonstrate that you are ready to take on this challenge. You can
achieve this by challenging yourself to be a better official every time
you go out on the diamond and showing
consistency in your game control,
positioning, mechanics & calls.
- Patience:
spots to Canadian Championships are very
limited and the Umpire Committee receives
many applications from many qualified officials every year. For out of
province Canadians, Ontario may only get one appointment per
tournament. Unfortunately, not everyone can attend a Canadian
Championship every year; however, with hard work & a consistent solid
on-field performance, you will eventually reach your goal.
Officiating at a Canadian Championship is one of
the most rewarding experiences an official can have. It takes a lot of
hard work and persistence to get there, but is one of the most memorable
experiences of your life. Keep working hard & demonstrate
consistency and you'll
get there!
