To become a baseball umpire in New Jersey, you must follow specific steps to get started. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
Registration:
All umpires must be registered with the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA).
Local Associations: Joining a local officials association or chapter is required.
Age Requirements: You must be 18 to officiate high school sports in New Jersey.
Exams and Training: New umpires must attend a Cadet training program, which includes 10-14 hours of classroom sessions.
After this, there’s a written exam to ensure an understanding of the rules.
On-field training for positioning and mechanics is also part of the process. Cadet officials work sub-varsity games for up to two years before being certified to officiate at all high school levels.
Fees and Dues: Expect to pay registration fees to your local association and the NJSIAA. These fees cover resources like Rule Books and Case Books, as well as materials for the online exam.