The third annual Walter Estes Umpire Clinic will return to Owensboro on March 2, offering a free opportunity for aspiring umpires to learn from some of the region’s best. The clinic will run from 4-7 p.m. at Lourdes Gym on Frederica Street, with no cost for participants.
Organized by the 3rd Region Baseball Officials Association, the event aims to recruit new umpires into the game, filling a growing need at all levels of competition – from Little League to high school. Paul Leachman, one of the event organizers, said the clinic is named in honor of Walter Estes, a beloved coach and figure in the area.
“Walter coached around here and did a lot for the community, so this is a way to honor him and also break new people into the game,” Leachman said. “We want to give folks an idea of what umpiring is like, whether they’re brand new or looking to sharpen their skills.”
This year’s clinic will feature retired Major League Baseball umpire Larry Vanover, who has joined the effort to help train new officials.
“Having someone like Larry on board is huge,” Leachman said. “It’s a chance to learn from one of the best in the game.”
Attendees will participate in various training stations covering plate mechanics, classroom instruction, and field exercises. While the clinic will primarily take place indoors at Lourdes Gym, there may be some outdoor sessions depending on weather conditions.
Pre-registration is encouraged, and participants who sign up before mid-February will receive a free T-shirt. Registration details can be obtained by emailing Paul Leachman at [email protected].
Leachman noted that the clinic is not just about teaching mechanics; it’s also about addressing the growing shortage of umpires in the region.
“All the playgrounds, even high schools, are struggling to find enough officials,” Leachman said. “It’s really bad. Even places like Southern, where they pay well and treat you right, can’t get enough people. This clinic is our way of trying to fix that.”
The shortage of officials isn’t unique to baseball. Leachman, who also referees basketball, said the trend is affecting all sports, with schools scrambling to find enough referees to cover games.
“There’s a big gap in ages,” he said. “We have a lot of older officials and some younger ones under 25, but between 26 and 49, there just aren’t enough people getting into it. We’re hoping this clinic can help change that.”
Independence Bank has continued as the title sponsor for this year’s clinic.
“They’ve always been great to the community, and when we asked if they’d sponsor again, they didn’t hesitate,” Leachman said.
Additional sponsors include Chris Hoskins with Kentucky Farm Bureau and Champion Ford.
The first Walter Estes Umpire Clinic drew about 20 participants. Last year, that number grew to nearly 50, and organizers hope to reach 60 this year. Leachman said the ultimate goal is to build a sustainable pipeline of umpires for the future.
“We’ve had a few folks go on to work with the KHSAA after coming through this clinic, and even though it’s not a huge number, it’s made a big difference,” he said. “If we can add five new officials a year, that’s a win.”
Local playgrounds and athletic organizations will be present at the clinic, offering immediate opportunities for participants to get involved and start officiating games this spring and summer.
“This is a great way to give back to the game and the community,” Leachman said. “Plus, it’s a good side job. You can make some extra money and be part of a sport you love.”
