Across Ohio and the nation, competitive sports are facing a growing crisis: a shortage of qualified officials. From youth leagues to collegiate athletics, the need for umpires, referees, judges and support personnel has never been more urgent. In response, we’re stepping up with another new adult education initiative - “Get in the Game: Baseball Umpiring Masterclass” - designed to recruit, train and prepare the next generation of baseball umpires in time for this season. This hands-on class is a follow-up to “Get in the Game: Football Officiating Masterclass” and “Get in the Game: Basketball Officiating Masterclass” which took place here this past summer and fall.
This dynamic program is led by seasoned instructors with decades of baseball experience. Participants will gain a deep understanding of baseball rules, on-field mechanics and the practical decision-making needed to manage game-day scenarios with confidence and integrity.
This introductory hybrid course is perfect for new baseball umpires with little to no prior officiating experience. Training is supplemented with a self-paced online module offered through RefReps, allowing students to build a strong foundation at their own pace. Classroom and on-field instruction focus on Ohio High School Baseball rules and the fundamentals of the two-umpire system. Students will learn proper positioning, develop sound judgment and gain the confidence to make quick, common-sense calls in real-time game situations. Off-site sessions will include drills, cage work, controlled scrimmage scenarios, and - weather permitting - live game experience.
Topics covered include:
Equipment and Uniform Requirements
Rule Review and Rule Interpretation
On-Field Mechanics
Game Management Techniques
Classroom dates: Mondays and Wednesdays, March 9 - 25, 2026, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Cost: $65 (includes instruction, testing and certification)
Whether you're looking to stay active, support your local sports community, make some extra money or kick off a new career path, this program provides the tools, certification and confidence to succeed on the field.
Space is limited - early registration is encouraged. Enroll NOW at www.polaris.edu/baseballmasterclass, by phone at 440.891.7750 or in-person. For more information, contact Kim Grieco at kgrieco@polaris.edu.
Catch YOU on the diamond this spring!