Carolina Umpire Camp
The South Atlantic Umpires Association’s Carolina Umpires Camp, held each fall, offers a comprehensive training experience designed to develop umpires at every level. The camp combines classroom instruction with on-field training, focusing on rules, mechanics, positioning, and game management to build confidence and consistency. Participants receive personalized feedback and mentorship from a staff of accomplished instructors who currently work—or have worked—in NCAA Division I and professional baseball, many of whom began their careers within the SAU organization. Through hands-on experience, expert guidance, and networking opportunities, the Carolina Umpires Camp provides a clear pathway for umpires to elevate their skills and advance in their officiating careers.
What We Offer
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Skill Development
The camp provides structured training in umpire fundamentals: rules, mechanics (plate and base work), positioning, timing, field work, and game management. Sessions include both classroom instruction and practical on-field drills to reinforce learning.
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Live Game Experience
Attendees get opportunities to umpire real games during the camp. This gives hands-on experience calling plays under typical game conditions, which helps translate the theory and drills into actual umpiring performance.
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Confidence Building
Beyond just teaching rules and mechanics, the training emphasizes developing poise, decisiveness, and presence on the field. The goal is to help participants gain the confidence needed to perform well—whether in youth, high school, college or higher levels.
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Mentorship & Feedback
Each participant receives feedback from experienced instructors. This includes one-on-one coaching, review of plate work or field mechanics, and suggestions for improvement. Mentoring from those who have “been there” is a key part of the value.
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Networking & Advancement
Because many instructors are umpires who began in SAU and have progressed to NCAA Division I and professional levels, the camp provides exposure to people who can guide or open doors for advancement.
Instructors
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The instructor staff is comprised of seasoned umpires who currently work, or have worked, at NCAA Division I and/or professional levels. Many of them started their careers with South Atlantic Umpires and have come back to teach.
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These instructors bring first-hand experience of what it takes to advance through the ranks. Their insights cover not just technical mechanics, but also the “intangibles” of umpiring success (game‐management, handling pressure, professionalism, dealing with managers/coaches, etc.).
Outcomes & Benefits
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Participants leave better equipped in terms of rule knowledge, mechanics, positioning, and mental readiness.
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Umpires who complete the camp often find that their credibility and confidence improve, leading to better performance on the field and more assignments.
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For those looking to move up (high school → college → possibly professional), the camp serves as both training ground and a stepping stone. The exposure to high-quality instruction helps identify strengths and areas for growth needed for advancement.
