Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need umpiring experience to join the chapter?
No, you only need a desire to work and learn. The chapter conducts training classes and clinics for all new members. The course is designed to provide you with a working knowledge of the rules and umpire mechanics so that you can begin your development as a baseball umpire.
How do I join the Dallas Chapter?
For new members, you will need to complete a TASO New Member Application form found at www.taso.org and submit the application fee on or before your first meeting. The fee includes general liability insurance coverage and a mandatory background check which is conducted on all members.
The TASO Renewal Membership Application form is also available on-line at www.taso.org. If you are a TASO member transferring from another chapter, please contact your chapter Secretary to request a transfer.
How much does it cost to join?
Chapter dues are $65.00 annually, due by the first week of October for the up-coming spring season.
The state association (TASO) dues are set each year by the TASO Board. First year members pay a $40 application fee. After the first year, the TASO membership renewal fee is $65 per year (TASO's "year" is from July through June). Only the $40 application fee + the $65 chapter fee is needed when you first join the chapter and is due and payable on or before you start attending meetings and training sessions.
What about equipment and uniforms?
Each umpire supplies his/her own equipment and uniforms. At a minimum, this should include a mask, chest protector, shin guards, shoes, gray pants that can fit over the shin guards, black uniform shirt, fitted cap with TASO logo, ball bag, indicator, and a plate brush.
Uniform and equipment packages are available from various vendors. The cost of a complete package can run from about $250 to over $1,000 depending on the type and amount of equipment and uniforms you purchase.
How long does the "season" last?
DBUA only assigns games for the area high school season. Meetings will begin in early December, High School scrimmages and the regular season games start in February. District play concludes in May. Playoffs follow with the State Championships the first week in June.
Do I need to attend the Chapter meetings?
Yes. There are a lot of issues and rules that only get discussed at the meetings. In addition, the chapter provides updates and training at most meetings. Members are required to attend 70% of meetings to remain in good standing.
Does the chapter provide training?
Yes, the chapter provides training clinics which cover a range of topics including rules, mechanics for working the plate or bases, handling coaches/players, and includes work on the field and batting cages with some of our most experienced umpires as instructors.
Do I need to attend the training?
The short answer is yes, however, it depends on what level (Little League, Youth Leagues, Minor Leagues, etc.) that you have been working. Our experience has been that due to variations in rules and mechanics, even seasoned umpires can benefit from the training. In addition, an experienced umpire can help his fellow "rookies" who don't have that experience get more comfortable with the prospect of becoming an umpire.
I have several years experience working as an umpire. Will that experience count?
The Dallas Chapter assigns games based upon performance and not years of service (seniority). New umpires generally start out calling Freshman/JV games and advance to higher levels based upon their performance.
If you have prior experience at higher levels (college, etc.) or are transferring from another TASO chapter or from another state's organization, the board may approve a schedule of higher level games based upon that experience. The bottom line is that your experience may have some bearing on your assignments, but it really depends on your performance as an umpire.
I want to call higher level baseball. How long will it take before I can get assigned to those games?
That depends entirely on your skills as an umpire. The Dallas Chapter assigns games based upon performance and not years of service. There is no "magic formula" to determine if, or when, you may get assigned higher level games.
The general track for getting to the higher level is starting out calling Freshman/JV games, then successfully moving up to 3A-4A varsity games, getting some 4A-5A JV, 4A-6A varsity, and eventually getting assigned consistently to the very good 4A-6A games. It is a purposely long process, but some move through it fairly quickly, and others never make it past a certain level. It is dependent upon your dedication and performance.