Want to earn real respect behind the plate? It’s not about barking orders or flexing authority. It’s about staying calm, composed, and in control—especially when the pressure’s on.
The most effective umpires aren’t just “in charge” of the game—they’re in control of it. And that small shift in mindset makes all the difference.
Let’s break down why embracing this approach can make your games smoother, your job easier, and the experience better for everyone on the field.
In Charge vs. In Control: What’s the Real Difference?
When you’re in charge, you’re relying on your authority. You may raise your voice, shut down questions, or lead with a “my field, my rules” mentality.
That kind of energy might work for a minute—but it usually invites conflict, slows down the game, and turns small issues into big ones.
But when you’re in control, you project calm, confidence, and professionalism. You’re not looking for a power trip. You’re there to manage the game smoothly and keep everyone on the same page.
Respect doesn’t come from your volume—it comes from how you carry yourself.
Why the Right Mindset Matters
The tone you set as the umpire affects every single person around you—players, coaches, fans, and even your partner. If you come in hot, expect others to follow.
But when you stay in control, the game stays in rhythm. Disputes are minimized. Players feel heard. Coaches are more cooperative. And you stay sharp and focused.
In youth baseball especially, how you handle yourself becomes a teachable moment. You’re modeling self-control, discipline, and grace under pressure—traits young players will carry for life.
7 Tips to Stay in Control as an Umpire
1. Lead With Confidence, Not Ego
Know the rules. Know your mechanics. Speak with clarity. You don’t need to “act tough” to show authority—your presence should do that for you. Check out our list of must
2. Let Your Body Language Do the Talking
Good posture, calm gestures, and steady movements show you’re locked in. Avoid dramatic reactions or defensive stances.
3. Communicate Early and Clearly
Set the tone during the pregame meetings. Speak respectfully, be concise, and make it known you’re approachable—but not a pushover.
4. Be the Calm During the Storm
When others get heated, you don’t have to match their energy. Respond with calm, measured words. That’s real control.
5. Missed a Call? Move On
Everyone misses one here or there. Don’t dwell. Don’t defend. Reset and refocus. Control is about how you recover, not just how you call it.
6. Know the Rules
Confidence is rooted in preparation. Study rulebooks. Revisit case plays. Attend clinics. When you know your stuff, it shows.
7. Control the Game’s Flow
Keep things moving. Be consistent. Stay aware of timing and tempo. Your rhythm sets the tone for everyone else.
Two Umpires. Two Outcomes.
Umpire A comes in loud and forceful. He demands obedience, shuts down feedback, and uses ejections as tools of control. Result? Drama, delays, and tension.
Umpire B walks in confident, calm, and prepared. He speaks with purpose, listens when needed, and handles heat with grace. Result? A smooth, respectful game.
The difference? One is trying to be in charge. The other is truly in control.
Who do you want to be?
Why It’s Better to Be in Control
When you stay in control, everyone wins. Coaches coach. Players focus. Parents relax. And you umpire with clarity and confidence.
It leads to:
- Fewer arguments and distractions
- More respect from coaches and players
- A smoother, faster-paced game
- A better experience for everyone—including you
Choose Control Every Time
You can’t control everything on the field—but you can control how you show up.
Every game is an opportunity to lead with calm authority, to guide the flow, and to represent what a great umpire looks like.
Don’t just take charge of the game. Be in control of it. That’s the mindset that wins—not just games, but respect.