ABOUT THE NUCP

The NUCP is in the process of changing from its current level structure. There will still be five levels, but there will be sub-levels at each level, and competency will need to be demonstrated in order to advance. An umpire will have a Training, Trained, or Certified designation that accompanies his/her level.

The current NUCP program provided a rough framework for umpire development. The framework provided basic structure, but the "meat and potatoes" of the program varied greatly from province to province, often dependent on human and financial resources available. The transformation to a nationally developed and administered program will be based on collaborative efforts from across the country, as well as educational research and established best practices. The new NUCP program should provide for equal opportunity for all umpires across the country to receive high-level, standardized training that will help them to achieve their goals, regardless of where they live.

Training will be specific to a particular chosen pathway and umpires will have the flexibility to choose their path based on personal goals and provincial and national needs. Enhancements and value-added training will be implemented at every stage of development. We will also incorporate technology to make the learning process more effective and exciting.

NUCP CERTIFICATION PATH

Under the current structure of the National Umpire Certification Program, the certification path is based on yearly attendance of a clinic. Umpires must progress through the yearly system of clinics to complete each level and advance their skills. Umpires start at Level 1 and must attend a Level 1 clinic for two years before advancing to the Level 2 clinics. Level 2 umpires will progress through 3 years of clinics for offense, defense and game management before advancing to Level 3. The level 3 umpires only have to attend a clinic every third year, but are required to complete an online exam every year there is no clinic.

Level 1 Umpires (Must be at least 12 years of age to start)

Year 1 & 2 - The Basics

Level 2 Umpires

Year 1 - Offense 

Year 2 - Defense

Year 3 - Game Management

Level 3 Umpires

Year 1 - Online Exam Only 

Year 3 - Level 3 Clinic

Level 4/5 Umpires

Invitation only to the Baseball Alberta Superclinic