Welcome to another episode of the Umpire Classroom Podcast! In this special installment, I sit down with my friend, Bill Ward—a high school and collegiate umpire from Alabama, known for his facebook alias, Bama Umpire. We tackle some of the top questions submitted by listeners, covering crucial NFHS baseball rules and scenarios.

Join us for an incredible conversation with George Drouches, NCAA National Coordinator of Baseball Umpires!

In this episode, George shares his journey in sports officiating, insights into the evolution of college baseball umpiring, and the NCAA’s initiatives to elevate the profession. We discuss mentorship, pathways for new umpires, and the NCAA’s Prospect Camp as a gateway for those aspiring to break into collegiate baseball.

📘 Must-Have Resource for Umpires: Get the 2025-2026 NCAA Baseball Rules Study Guide at store.referee.com and use promo code "CALLIT" for a discount!

In this episode, we’re kicking off 2025 with a detailed preview of what’s coming to Umpire Classroom and Referee Magazine this month. From NFHS baseball rules changes to mechanics breakdowns and exciting new guest segments, this is your ultimate guide to starting the year right as an umpire.

🔗 Important Links:

🎥 What’s New This Month on Umpire Classroom: - First Video Drop of 2025: Friday, January 3rd - Topics for the month include:

📢 Fan Participation:

✨ Special Announcements:

📸 Cover photo courtesy of Lance Rößner: https://www.lanceroessner.de/home #UmpireClassroom #ThePregamePodcast #BaseballUmpires #NFHSBaseball #UmpireTraining #RefereeMagazine

In this episode, Patrick Faerber introduces the Baseball Umpire Network of Trainers (BUNT), a groundbreaking initiative to connect and support umpire trainers and assigners across the country. Learn how BUNT can help improve education, share resources, and transform the way we prepare umpires for the game. Want more? Slides and additional resources are available in the YouTube version of this episode. Watch here: [YouTube Link] Join the group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/umpiretraining 📩 Submit your ideas or questions to [email protected] Let’s make umpire training better together! #UmpireTraining #BUNT #Podcast #BaseballEducation

Welcome back to the Umpire Classroom Podcast! Join your host, Patrick Faerber, in a fascinating episode discussing a unique substitution scenario from a recent collegiate summer game. Today, we explore the intricacies of unannounced substitutions and their implications on the game, providing a deep dive into the rules that govern these situations across different leagues.

In this episode, Patrick shares his experience with a substitution that raised questions about pitcher eligibility and the correct application of rules. We clarify the differences between announced and unannounced substitutions, and why understanding these rules is crucial for umpires at all levels. Whether you're an aspiring umpire or a seasoned veteran, this discussion will enhance your understanding of game management and ensure you make the right call in complex situations.

Key Discussion Points:

For those looking to deepen their umpiring knowledge, don't forget to check out our Umpire 101 course available at UmpireClassroom.com. And if you need high-quality umpiring gear, visit Diamond MMA for exclusive discounts through our link: https://www.diamondmma.com/umpireclassroom

Enjoy the episode, leave your thoughts in the comments, and don't hesitate to suggest topics for future discussions. Thank you for tuning in, and we can't wait to see you on the field!

In this episode, I discuss working the recent Georgia 11u State Championship for Little League. We'll break down why traditional positions might offer better calls on bases and how Little League variations can impact gameplay. From handling tricky pickle plays to maintaining proper footwork for catch/no-catch calls, we uncover the nuances of umpiring at this vibrant level of baseball.

For umpires keen on refining their skills, this episode is packed with practical advice:

Whether you're a seasoned umpire or new to the diamond, this episode offers valuable insights into the dynamic world of Little League umpiring. Don't forget to check out our Umpire 101 course for more in-depth guidance, and for top-notch protective gear to keep you safe on the field, visit Diamond MMA with our special affiliate link: https://www.diamondmma.com/umpireclassroom

Ready to step up your umpiring game? Dive into this episode and enhance your understanding of this essential role in youth baseball!

In this episode of the Pre-Game, host Patrick Faerber tackles the age-old wisdom 'Comparison is the thief of joy' through the lens of sports officiating. Drawing from personal experiences and insights from the world of umpiring, Faerber explores how the trap of comparison can rob officials of their passion and purpose.

But the real gem of this episode? An unexpected connection between comedy legend Jerry Seinfeld and the world of umpiring. Faerber reveals how a powerful anecdote from Seinfeld became a pivotal moment in his officiating career, offering a fresh perspective on success, fulfillment, and staying true to one's calling.

From dealing with postseason disappointments to redefining what truly matters in an umpire's journey, this episode is packed with valuable lessons for officials at any level. Listeners will come away with practical strategies to reignite their passion, focus on personal growth, and find joy in the game they love.

Whether you're an aspiring umpire, a seasoned official, or simply someone grappling with comparison in your own life, this episode promises to challenge your thinking and inspire a renewed sense of purpose. Tune in to discover how Jerry Seinfeld's wisdom can transform your approach to umpiring – and perhaps your entire outlook on life.

In this episode, Patrick explores the subtle yet impactful techniques that can transform how umpires handle games, focusing on the importance of the basics and reading catchers effectively. With the regular season wrapping up and playoffs approaching, Patrick reflects on recent games, sharing personal experiences and lessons that emphasize the core skills every umpire should master. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with actionable insights, perfect for umpires looking to elevate their game. Join us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and don't forget to check out our Umpire 101 course at umpireclassroom.com for more in-depth training opportunities.

Dive into a unique exploration of umpiring essentials and overlooked strategies in this insightful episode. Patrick shares vital tips for first-year umpires, emphasizing the importance of feedback and personal improvement to elevate their officiating skills. From the intricacies of hand mechanics to handling unexpected situations on the field, this episode is packed with wisdom not only for newcomers but also for seasoned umpires aiming to refine their craft. Whether recovering from an injury, like Patrick, or seeking to stand out in high-level games, this episode serves as a crucial pre-game resource for umpires at all stages of their career.

In this episode of "The Pregame: An Umpire Classroom Podcast," Patrick Faerber shares insights from his own umpiring experiences and evaluates common mechanics and situations faced by umpires at various levels. Patrick discusses the importance of mastering the pivot mechanic from the A position to enhance performance on the field and stand out during evaluations, especially for those aiming for deeper playoff rounds. He elaborates on his recovery from knee surgery and how it affects his approach to umpiring bases, emphasizing the need for umpires to focus on their movement and positioning to properly cover plays and maintain a professional appearance. Additionally, Patrick breaks down a submitted play involving a controversial pickoff attempt, clarifying NFHS rules and offering advice on making calls in such scenarios. This episode not only provides valuable technical guidance but also underscores the ongoing learning and improvement essential to umpiring excellence.

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