Umpiring for WPPA

WPPA believes that having knowledgeable, well-trained umpires calling each game is critical to delivering a first-class experience for players, coaches, parents and spectators.  Consistent with our philosophy to teach good baseball and softball fundamentals and good sportsmanship to kids in a positive and enjoyable atmosphere, we also teach our older players the fundamentals of quality umpiring to further their overall development and leadership skills.

WPPA hosts umpire training each March to train new umpires for each upcoming spring/summer season.   Training typically occurs on the same weeknight for four (4) consecutive weeks, usually from 7-9pm (exact dates will be announced by mid-February each year).   Prospective umpires are required to attend all training sessions and pass a rules test in order to be eligible to umpire for WPPA. Decisions on date, times and location for 2023 training will be made in conjunction with CDC guidelines, state and local guidelines and restrictions, and COVID-19 safety precautions.

Umpires must be 13 years old by June1st to be eligible to umpire WPPA games for that season.

To register for umpire training, complete the 2024 Umpire Registration Program via TeamSnap, which will be available January 8, 2024.  There is no fee to register for umpire training.

Once registered, expect to receive more information regarding the March Umpire Training program in early 2024.  In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to Josh Locks, WPPA Umpire Coordinator, at umpires@wppachicago.org.