UMPS Care CLE Official Leadership Program

The Cleveland Guardians, UMPS CARE Charities, and Major League Baseball Umpires are creating new opportunities for Northeast Ohio teens (ages 13-18) to learn the game from a different perspective.

The UMPS CARE Official Leadership Program is a free experience that introduces teens to baseball and softball officiating while building leadership, communication, decision-making, and confidence.

Whether you love sports, want to stay connected to the game, or are looking for a potential summer job opportunity, this program is for you.

Sports officials help create safe, fair, and positive experiences for young athletes. This program helps prepare the next generation of youth baseball and softball umpires while supporting teens’ growth on and off the field.

Participants will:

• Learn how to make confident decisions in game situations.
• Practice communication, leadership, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Develop a stronger understanding of sportsmanship, fairness, and player safety.
• Learn foundational baseball and softball umpiring mechanics.
• Connect with experienced instructors and members of the professional umpiring community.

Youth sports officiating can be a meaningful summer job opportunity for teens who want to earn money while staying involved in baseball and softball.

After completing the program, participants will be prepared to pursue paid opportunities officiating youth baseball and softball games. Through the Guardians’ network of local youth baseball and softball partner leagues, participants can be connected to organizations seeking umpires for summer games.

Participants who complete the UMPS CARE Official Leadership Program will receive:

• A meaningful introduction to baseball and softball officiating.
• Skills in leadership, communication, decision-making, and professionalism.
• Preparation to pursue youth-sports officiating opportunities.
• Connection opportunities with Guardians partner leagues seeking summer umpires.
• An opportunity to attend a Cleveland Guardians game.

The UMPS CARE Official Leadership Program is designed for teens interested in baseball, softball, leadership, and officiating.

• No prior umpiring experience is required.
• Participants of all experience levels are welcome.
• The program is designed for teens who want to build confidence, develop new skills, and explore officiating opportunities.

Officiating is more than a role on game day. It gives young people the opportunity to:

• Build work experience and professional skills.
• Take on responsibility and develop confidence.
• Stay involved in the game they love.
• Support a positive experience for younger athletes.
• Explore future opportunities in youth sports.

Future UMPS CARE Official Leadership Program opportunities will be announced throughout the upcoming year. Check back for upcoming program information, registration details, and ways to get involved.