2026 Umpire Courses Now OPEN
- Jarod Bormann
- 23 hours ago
- 2 min read
The 2026 umpire certification courses for the The Driftless League are officially open.
If you’ve ever considered becoming an umpire, this is a great opportunity to get involved with local youth baseball and softball while also earning extra money during the summer season.
Separate Baseball & Softball Certification Courses
Baseball and softball each have their own certification course. Participants can choose to become certified in:
Baseball only
Softball only
Both baseball and softball
This allows umpires to focus on the game they are most comfortable with — or expand opportunities by being available for both.
Flexible, Mobile-Friendly Training
The courses are designed to be simple, accessible, and practical for first-year and returning umpires alike.
Each course:
Is fully open book
Includes video explanations of key rules at each grade level
Can be completed directly from your phone, tablet, or computer
Allows participants to work at their own pace
The goal is not to “trick” anyone with difficult testing. The goal is to help umpires feel prepared and confident stepping onto the field.
Why Umpires Matter
Umpires are a critical part of youth baseball and softball. They help:
Enforce league rules fairly and consistently
Keep games moving smoothly
Maintain a safe and respectful environment for players, coaches, and families
Teach sportsmanship and accountability within the game
Quite simply: without umpires, games do not happen.
Join the Driftless League Umpire Roster
Once your course is completed, your contact information will be added to the official Driftless League umpire roster. League communities and coordinators use this roster throughout the season when assigning games and looking for available umpires.
Whether you’re a student looking for summer income, an adult wanting to stay connected to the game, or a former player interested in giving back to youth sports, umpiring is a valuable and rewarding way to be involved.
The 2026 season will be here before we know it — now is the perfect time to get certified and get on the field.
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