Long Island youths answering call to help fill officiating shortage
Briefly

Long Island youths answering call to help fill officiating shortage
""It's hurting the kids with their development," said longtime umpire Mike Herring. "They're not getting a real game experience," he said."
""Getting them to be very confident is half the battle," said Herring, who does an exercise just on projecting strike three calls."
""I always loved playing Little League, so giving back to that is also a big benefit of this," 16-year-old Brandon Charles told The Post."
""If you can look confident out there, you're going to get less stuff from parents or players," Herring noted."
A significant officiating shortage in youth sports on Long Island has prompted about 35 teens from the Bellmore-Merrick school system to enroll in a six-week umpiring course with UmpsCare. This initiative aims to prepare them for the 2026 baseball season, addressing the need for certified officials. Longtime umpire Mike Herring emphasizes the importance of proper officiating for player development, as many teams struggle to play real games. The program not only teaches the rules but also builds confidence in young officials to enhance the game experience.
Read at New York Post
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