For those serious about umpiring, USA Softball umpire training is the best available in any sports organization today. National, regional, and local mechanic schools and rules clinics are scheduled each spring and in many cases in the fall for new umpires beginning at that time of year. Training is similar at each level, as described in the USA Softball Umpire Manual. Whether plate mechanics, base positioning, signals, working with players and coaches, or just tips in umpiring, the Manual is the most complete training guide available. To assist the local training official, USA Softball provides training aides through a Clinic Guide, instructional videos and presentations, school mechanics drill cards, an umpire examination, meeting quizzes, and a "Case Book."

Insurance for USA Softball umpires is by far the best for any sport or organization.

An umpire uniform and leisure wear program is available so that each registered umpire can purchase and wear the official USA Softball uniform with pride. Whether it's the shirt, cap, pants, shoes or ball bag or any of the variety of protective equipment, or optional wear such as sun glasses, the USA Softball umpire program has it. 

USA Softball registered umpires are selected to officiate in metro, state, regional and national championships, and as members of the National Governing Body for Softball in the US, are the only organization in the US which softball umpires can apply for World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) certification and the opportunity to umpire in World Championships, Regional Games (Pan Am Games) or the Olympic Games. World Cup events held in Plant City Florida also are open to USA Softball umpires who have completed a "Qualifier" Seminar.

Yes, it pays to be a USA Softball umpire! From expert training through being rewarded for individual umpire achievements, USA Softball offers the most to help umpires achieve their goals - to be the best they can be, and to reach the highest level their skills will take them.