To become a baseball umpire in Georgia, you must follow specific steps to get started. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
Local Association:
Reach out and join the officials’ association in your area to begin the process. They handle registration and training for various sports. You can find a list of associations on the Georgia High School Association (GHSA) website.
Your local association will provide training through instructional meetings and training. They’ll also update you on rule changes as needed.
Register with the Georgia High School Association
All officials must be registered with the Georgia High School Association (GHSA) before assigners will schedule game assignments will be given.
Understand Umpire Classifications:
The GHSA has three different classifications for umpires.
Registered: Must be 18 with a high school diploma or GED. Pass the rules exam with a score of 75% and officiate a minimum number of games in your sport.
Approved: Achieved after two years as a Registered official. Maintain a 75% score on the rules exam and officiate a minimum number of games.
Certified: Achieved after two years as an Approved official. Score at least 85% on the written rules exam.
Online Exams:
Officials must complete an online rules interpretation clinic yearly to keep their status active and take a rules exam.
Registered Officials can access clinics and exams through the GHSA website, which are scheduled before each season begins.
Attend Georgia Officials’ Camps:
To officiate post-season tournament games, umpires must attend a yearly development camp. Camp attendance is also necessary every other year to maintain varsity official status.
Fees and Dues:
Be prepared to pay registration fees to your local association and the GHSA. These fees cover the cost of essential resources like the NFHS Rule Book, Case Book, Officials Manual, and insurance.