With the baseball and softball seasons fast approaching, umpires have a prime chance to sharpen their skills, refine their mechanics, and stay updated on the latest rule changes. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just starting out, the MIBT.org Baseball & Softball Umpire Clinic, in partnership with NASO on Saturday, February 22nd, at 10 AM CT is designed to elevate your umpiring skills at this crucial time of year.
Referee.com sat down with MIBT Founder and President Tim Kiefer, to find out more about these educational opportunities.
Referee.com: With the baseball and softball seasons just around the corner, there’s a lot of excitement in the air. For those interested in officiating, can you tell us about the upcoming umpire clinic?
Tim Kiefer: Absolutely! On Saturday, February 22nd, starting at 10 AM CT, MIBT.org is hosting a top-tier baseball clinic and the softball umpire clinic follows on Sunday, February 23rd, also at 10AM CT. This is a good chance for both new and experienced umpires to sharpen their skills before the season kicks off.
Referee.com: What can attendees expect to learn from this clinic?
Tim Kiefer: We’ve packed this clinic with valuable insights and hands-on instruction. Topics include recent rule changes and updates, proper mechanics and positioning, game management techniques, how to handle appeals, and real-world case plays with video reviews. Additionally, we’ll cover interference and obstruction calls and essential lineup management strategies.
Referee.com: That sounds very in-depth. Is this clinic geared toward any specific level of umpiring experience?
Tim Kiefer: Not at all! Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been officiating for years, there’s something for everyone. It’s particularly valuable for Illinois officials since it’s a Level 2 Certified Clinic, which helps fulfill certification requirements. But umpires from all over can benefit from the insights we’ll be sharing.
Referee.com: What if someone wants to attend but can’t make the live session?
Tim Kiefer: Great question! We know schedules can be tricky, so the entire clinic will be available on-demand starting February 24th. That way, umpires can watch at their convenience and still gain all the critical knowledge.
Referee.com: How can someone sign up for this clinic?
Tim Kiefer: Registration is simple—just head over to MIBT.org and sign up. Spots are filling quickly, so I’d recommend signing up as soon as possible to secure your place.
Referee.com: Sounds like this is an opportunity umpires should be serious about taking advantage of. Any final words for those considering attending?
Tim Kiefer: Officiating is an essential part of baseball and softball, and clinics like this help ensure that umpires are confident and well-prepared. Whether you’re looking to refine your skills, stay updated on the latest rules, or take your officiating to the next level, this clinic is the perfect way to get ready for the season. Don’t miss out!
🔗 Register now – Secure your spot today!
Baseball Clinic:
What can umpires expect from the clinic as far as content and clinicians?
Umpires attending the MIBT-NASO Baseball Umpiring Clinic can expect high-level instruction from some of the top clinicians in the country, including Patrick Faerber (Umpire Classroom), John Cyr (Illinois state final umpire and certified clinician), and other experienced umpiring educators. This clinic will provide:
- In-Depth Video Breakdown: Analyze actual high school game footage to better understand real-world situations and improve decision-making.
- Tim Kiefer Instruction: Learn directly from state final umpires and top officiating educators on mechanics, positioning, and game management.
- 2025 Rule Changes & Points of Emphasis: Stay ahead of the game with a detailed breakdown of new rule updates and interpretations.
- Interactive Learning: Participate in live polling and discussions to test your knowledge and gain insights from experienced umpires.
- Runner’s Lane Interference & Key Mechanics: Deep dive into one of the most misunderstood calls, with clear explanations and practical application.
What are the benefits of attending the clinic before the season?
- Next-Level Instruction: Learn from top-tier umpires and clinicians who have worked at the highest levels of high school baseball.
- Mental Preparation: Develop the confidence and game awareness needed to handle tough situations and stay composed under pressure.
- Masterclass Approach to Officiating: Go beyond the basics with deep dives into mechanics, positioning, and game management.
- Situational Awareness & Video Breakdown: Sharpen judgment by analyzing real game footage with expert-led discussions.
- Stay Ahead with 2025 Rule Changes: Be fully prepared before stepping onto the field.
This clinic isn’t just about learning rules—it’s about elevating your entire approach to umpiring and preparing you to excel at every level of the game.
What feedback have you received from past participants?
🌟 Umpire Feedback from Past MIBT Clinics 🌟
“This clinic was a game-changer for me. The video breakdown and live polling made it feel like I was right in the action. I left feeling more confident and prepared for the season!” — Mark R, IL
“The instruction from top-level umpires was incredible. Learning directly from state final officials helped me fine-tune my mechanics and positioning like never before!” — Sam W, NV
“MIBT’s clinic gave me a whole new perspective on rule enforcement. The discussions on runner’s lane interference and game management were eye-opening!” — James C, IL
“I’ve attended many clinics, but this one was by far the most interactive and engaging. The instructors really break things down in a way that makes sense. Highly recommend!” — Tom D, FL
🔗 Register now – Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity!
Softball Clinic:
What can umpires expect from the clinic as far as content and clinicians?
Attendees will receive next-level instruction from some of the top clinicians in the country, including Chris Terpstra (multiple state final umpire), Tracie Henry (Assistant Executive Director, Illinois High School Association), Roger Nichols (multiple state final umpire and head softball clinician for Illinois), and other experienced umpiring educators. This clinic offers:
- Actual Game Footage Breakdown: Analyze real high school softball plays to enhance decision-making and gain a deeper understanding of in-game situations.
- Instruction from State Final Umpires: Learn directly from officials who have worked at the highest levels of high school softball.
- 2025 Rule Changes & Points of Emphasis: Stay ahead of the game with expert guidance on new rule updates and interpretations before the season starts.
- Mechanics & Game Management: Improve on-field presence with hands-on instruction on proper mechanics, movement, and positioning for making the right calls.
- Interactive “You Make the Call” Segment: Test your knowledge with real-life scenarios and expert-led discussions.
This clinic isn’t just about learning rules—it’s about elevating your entire approach to umpiring and preparing you for success on the field. Don’t miss this opportunity!
Why should umpires attend before the season?
- Masterclass-Level Instruction
- Be Mentally Prepared for the Season
- Deep Dive into Key Rule Topics
- Game Footage Analysis & Situational Judgment
- Refined Mechanics & Positioning
- Engaging & Interactive Learning
What feedback have you received from past participants?
🌟 Umpire Feedback from Past MIBT Clinics 🌟
“This clinic was exactly what I needed to take my umpiring to the next level. The breakdown of mechanics was incredibly helpful, and the instructors were top-notch!” — Lisa M, IL
“The game footage analysis really helped me see the game from a new perspective!” — Tom S, GA
“Learning from state final umpires gave me so much confidence in my positioning and decision-making.” — David R, IL
“The ‘You Make the Call’ segment was eye-opening, and I walked away feeling more confident in handling tough situations on the field.” — Jessica C, OH
🔗 Register now – Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity!
