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Geez, I'd love to make a hundred bucks a game, and yes, I do believe it's worth it! I make around $50 bucks for varsity, and only $62.50 for college.
While I don't have an answer, I don't believe more pay will recruit more QUALITY umpires. It may recruit the kind that is only after quick cash.
Our association has been given a huge shot in the arm this year. We have added around 15 new umps this year which is about a 25% increase! Surely not all will stay and move up to the HS circuit, be hopefully some will. We have two weeks of "rec" ball over now, and after watching some of our new folks, and getting reports on all, and working with a couple, I have been impressed!
I have asked some why they wanted to start umpiring, and the usual answer is something like "I love being around ball, and the kids," or "I have always enjoyed ball, and want to give something back," but a few have said (in effect) "you guys make it look fun!" I have never heard anyone mention the pay.
While there are some "unpleasentries" associated with umpiring, if the "fun" and comraderie is pushed, most new guys will stick around, and the bad will be weeded out on their own.
More cash would be nice still though, but I still don't think that is the answer.
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