Mechanics Training Resources

Guides

• Snohomish Little League Condensed Umpire Manual — A condensed version of basic umpire mechanics.
• Umpire's 12 Commandments — A list of basic principles to ensure a professional presence on the field.
• Umpiring in the Slot — Steps on how to achieve the preferred umpiring position behind the plate to best see the pitch and limit getting hit.
• Field Mechanics Manual — A detailed guide on the two-umpire and three-umpire systems for the 60-foot diamond.
• Umpire Pregame Conference — What to do to prepare for the game with your umpiring partner and coaches.
• One Umpire Mechanics Guide — Guidelines, tips, and basic rules for umpiring a game by yourself.
• LL Umpire Mechanics Clinic — Clinic materials to learn plate and base umpire duties, responsibilities, and mechanics.

Virtual Training

Umpire Training Course — Supports inexperienced and experienced umpires in learning the basics of umpiring Little League Baseball and Softball

• Mechanics — Chest to Ball
•  Mechanics — Proper Use of Eyes
•  Pre-Pitch Routine — Habits of successful plate umpires
•  Strike Zone and Proper Use of Eyes — Using eyes to call a better strike zone.
•  Mechanics Grams — Short videos showing aspects of umpire mechanics using in-game footage.
•  Mechanics Grams pt. 2 — More short mechanics videos.
•  Mechanics Grams pt. 3 — More short mechanics videos.
•  Wedge Theory — Videos teaching the "wedge theory" for tag plays.
•  Wedge Theory at 2B — Videos focused on using the wedge theory at second base.
•  Game Management — Discussion on game management with LL UIC Mark Bernstein.
•  Virtual Umpire Clinic — A 3-part virtual umpire clinic.

Additional Resources

The internet is a fantastic source of information for umpires, both experienced and new. Below are some of the resources we have come across:

• The Little League Umpire Registry (registration is free!) — Access to the latest rule updates and interpretations, mechanics training videos and manuals, information and registration for available training programs, and volunteering for Regional and/or World Series tournaments.
• Little League University — Mechanics videos begin on the second page.
• Little League Umpiring 101 — Umpiring tips and training videos from a Kirkland-area umpire.
• West Region Little League Umpire Alumni Association — Training resources, rules presentations, and other materials for West Region umpires.