Baseball lovers can make big bucks this summer if they are willing to suit up in blue and stand behind home plate.
Orillia Legion Minor Baseball (OLMB) is looking for umpires for the upcoming season which kicks off on May. 8. OLMB president, Wes Winkel, says umpiring can be a great summer job for local youth and adults who want to give back to the community.
“You can get paid on average $35 a game to have a lot of fun on the ball diamond,” he said. “You gain skills from the job like learning how to be assertive.”
To be an umpire, you have to be at least 13 years old. Online training is provided through Baseball Ontario, and it costs $40. Winkel says it’s not a difficult job, as long as you have thick skin.
“Obviously anytime you are officiating, sometimes you can draw the negative ire of some spectators, players, or in the odd case coaches,” he said. “For the most part, that is not a problem.”
Winkel says umpires need to have baseball knowledge, confidence, and a love for the sport.
“Being able to project your voice is a good thing, too,” he said.
OLMB is looking for six umpires this spring. Umpires usually work Monday to Thursday and will average about two shifts a week. Umpires will also be called upon for weekend tournaments. To sign up to be an umpire, click here.
This year, OLMB consists of a record-breaking 460 players and 36 teams.
“Everyone is excited for this first year back without COVID,” Winkel said. “Everyone is excited to get back on the diamond.”
Winkel says the Toronto Blue Jays are currently inspiring a lot of youth to become interested in the sport of baseball.
“The Jays are a fun and exciting team that have generated a ton of interest,” he said. “We are seeing record youth numbers.”
