Estevan Minor Baseball is currently looking for new umpires and will be hosting an umpire clinic this weekend as they get ready for the upcoming season. 

Kevin Culy, the director of clinics and zone director of the umpire division of Estevan Minor Baseball explained that the program has changed this year.  

Umpires are required to complete 3 to 4 hours of online content. When they arrive at the clinic location, they will then be shown on field content where they are put through drills, shown different positioning and introduced to umpiring.  

“It’s fun, rewarding work and as you progress through your levels of umpiring and become more capable and proficient, so you get to meet other umpires from across the province, and in my case, from across Canada.”  

The clinics will be held at Spruce Ridge School in Estevan. Clinic Level 1 is on Saturday, April 27. Clinic Level 2 is on Sunday, April 28. Registration is at 8:45 a.m. on both mornings.  

Individuals interested in the clinic must register online as well as register for the online training component first and then the in-person clinic. The online portion must be completed before attending the clinic.  

Culy explained that there is a shortage for the U18 and men’s age categories. He encourages those who are interested in umpiring to give it a try.  

“As a clinician, I’d be able to teach and coach and mentor anyone who was interested in taking up umpiring baseball.” 

Traditionally the ages accepted for being an umpire are 13 and up. However, Culy said that they base their decision on interest and ability. He added that if 10-12-year-olds are passionate about the sport they would be a great addition. 

“We would make sure that the people had the supports in place to ensure they were successful on the diamonds.”  

He added that it is a great opportunity to make a bit of extra money over the summer. 

“It’s actually a hobby and a pastime that can reward a person with cash.”