Become a Certified High School Umpire with NJSBUA!

Essex, Union and Morris County New Jersey

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BECOME AN UMPIRE
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Unleash Your Passion for Baseball

Our Head Instructors with decades of experience both on field and in the classroom, will lead you through a successful Cadet Class  

For BASEBALL: Manny Fidalgo

For SOFTBALL: Bruce Kaufmann 

Don’t miss this chance to be on the field next Spring, shaping the future of New Jersey high school sports. 

Learn more

Or if you’re ready now…

Sign up Today!!

Email us for more information:

UmpNJSBUA@gmail.com

Cadet Classes start on January 7th 2026 and finish in time for you to work the Spring Season!

Working within the rules of the NFHS, the National Federation of High School Sports, you will become a part of the NJSIAA, the New Jersey Interscholastic Athletic Association, and be assigned baseball and/or softball games at the Freshman, JV and Varsity levels in Essex, Union and Morris Counties of New Jersey.

Umpire Training opportunities are available for free, at various times pre-season and during the spring and taught by NJSBUA Instructors with decades of experience. You will learn from the best.

High School baseball and softball games generally start at 4pm and last about two hours. You will have the ability to ‘block’ any times or days that you can’t work a game before and during the season. This is all done on a platform called Arbiter. The payment for a Varsity Softball game is $100.00 and Varsity Baseball is $110.00.

Step Up to the Plate: Become a High School Baseball or Softball Umpire with NJSBUA!

Are you ready to trade the bleachers for the best seat in the house? Do you love the crack of the bat, the smell of the infield dirt, and the thrill of the game? Then it's time to stop watching and start umpiring!

The NJSBUA (New Jersey State Baseball Umpires Association) is recruiting passionate individuals to join our ranks and become the next generation of high school baseball and softball umpires! We're not just an association; we're a close-knit crew of 200 dedicated umpires serving Essex, Union, and Morris counties—and we want you to be part of the action.

What Does It Take?

Becoming an umpire with NJSBUA is a rewarding journey that will sharpen your skills, test your mettle, and keep you connected to the game you love.

Here’s the fun, exciting path you’ll take:

1. The Huddle: Classroom & Rules Training 🧠

Think of this as your pre-game strategy session! You'll dive deep into the NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations) Rules—the official playbook for high school ball. Our seasoned instructors will guide you through scenarios, case plays, and the nuances of the game. You'll gain a comprehensive knowledge that is the foundation of every confident call.

2. The Mechanics: On-Field Practice & Drills 🏃

This is where you go from theory to practice! We'll teach you the mechanics—where to stand, how to move, the signals to use, and how to work seamlessly with your partner. Hustle is part of the job! You'll practice making calls on the bases and behind the plate until your movements are sharp, efficient, and professional.

3. The Test: Show What You Know ✍️

Just like a batter needs to prove they can hit a curveball, you'll need to pass an exam on the rules. This isn't about trick questions; it's about confirming you have the knowledge to keep the game fair and safe. Don't worry, our training prepares you thoroughly!

4. The Mentorship: Your Umpire "Buddy" System 🤝

You won't be thrown to the wolves! As a new "Cadet," you'll be paired with veteran NJSBUA umpires. They'll work games with you, offer real-time advice, and help you navigate the on-field situations that only experience can teach. Our strong association is built on this commitment to mentorship.

5. The Game Day: Stepping Onto the Field! 📢

Once certified, you're an official member of NJSBUA and ready to take assignments! You'll be the undisputed authority on the field, making quick, confident, and correct decisions. You’ll be a pillar of fair play and a vital part of every high school contest.

Beyond the Mask: Why Umpire?

  • Be a Leader: You're the one in charge, ensuring a safe, fair, and competitive environment for student-athletes.

  • Stay in the Game: If you can't play anymore, umpiring is the best way to keep the energy, intensity, and fun of baseball and softball in your life.

  • Join a Community: NJSBUA is a family. We hold regular meetings, clinics, and social events. You're joining a passionate team dedicated to supporting each other.

  • Flexible Income: Umpiring is a great way to earn extra money with a flexible schedule that often works around your day job or school commitments.

  • Develop Core Skills: Umpiring builds confidence, decision-making skills under pressure, communication, and conflict resolution—valuable traits in any walk of life!

Ready to call "Play Ball!"? Don't let this exciting opportunity pass you by. Join the NJSBUA family and become the next respected official in Essex, Union, and Morris counties!

Visit our sign-up page today to get started!

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UMPIRE LINKS

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About Us

The NJSBUA was founded in 1936 and still going strong. Our association consists of a dedicated group of men and women officials who are committed to the improvement of Baseball and Softball umpires in the Essex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex and Union County conferences we serve.  The NJSBUA is always actively recruiting interested new men and women to increase both our ranks and ability to serve the schools and programs in our area over the years. 

Executive Secretary - Jim Zielinski - thezeefamily@verizon.net

Treasurer - Jim DiGiovanni - smserv@aol.com

PRESIDENTS MESSAGE

My name is Joe Cunder .  I am the President for the NJSBUA for the 2026 & 2027 seasons. I have been a member of the association since 2014.  I have worked with many of you during those years.  

We have a very experienced  & transparent executive board.  However, we are only as strong as our MEMBERSHIP.  Try to get involved when you can.  It’s a great way to meet umpires & maybe, develop a friendship.  If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact me or any of the board members.

“Teamwork makes the dream work. “

Respectfully,

Joe Cunder

908 601 7903