Umpire Evaluation Criteria, Standards, Basic Forms and Reports

Consistency of Attitude

Focus on the game
Game intensity/alertness
Enthusiasm
Projection of confidence
Body language
Fraternization
Eagerness to learn and improve
Willingness to accept constructive criticism
Relationship with crew and others
Professionalism on and off the field

Handling of Non-Routine Situations

Knowledge/application of rules and interpretations
Demeanor/poise during situations
Overall ability in handling situations
(Verbal communication, taking action, tact, professionalism)
Handling of pressure

NCAA Umpire Evaluation Standards

Stability of Head and Body Position during the pitch
Establishes "Locked In" position, does not drift side to side or up and down with pitch. Does not flinch on swings or foul tips; Feet remain stable throughout, providing solid base; Maintains proper spacing from catcher so as not to become entangled if catcher moves quickly and unexpectedly; Eyes remain at horizontal with ground and do not dip as game wears on; Head at proper height to allow unobstructed view of entire plate. Works in the "slot", not over the top of the catcher or to the outside.

Timing
Does not anticipate pitch; Allows everything that can happen, to happen, before making DECISION, then makes a call. Does not make a call as the ball is approaching the plate or crossing but, after the catcher has caught the ball.

Style / Mechanics of call
Gives clear authoritative signals; Possesses smooth, relaxed styles that projects confidence; Coordinates voice and signals to give a professional appearance. Does not showboat or change the mechanics of his call during the course of a game. Voice is loud enough to be heard but does not draw undue attention.

Consistency of Strike Zone throughout the game
Maintains the same zone throughout the game. Is the same for both teams from inning 1 to inning 9. Has a grasp of how the zone can be adjusted in lopsided game. Note: Umpires "miss" pitches occasionally, just because an umpire calls a pitch that bounces a strike once does not mean that he should continue to call that pitch a strike in the name of consistency.

Judgment and Interpretation of Strike Zone
Interprets and calls the zone to it's written limits. Does not call "unhittable" pitch strikes nor does he have a zone that is too small.

Crew Mechanics
Has a good knowledge of proper mechanics and rotates in the proper situations and is alert enough to adjust if one of his partners misses coverage.

Crew Communications
Proper use of verbal and non-verbal communications. Good eye contact with partners between hitters and during developing plays.

Proper Angle / Stable Position as Play Occurs
Is either 90 degrees to angle of throw on force plays or two to three steps off the foul line for plays at first base, and 90 degrees to angle of runner on tag plays; not too close or too far away (6 to 12 feet is ideal); set and steady for play, not just the call. Not running when the play happens.

Timing
Does not anticipate the play; allows everything that can happen, to happen, before making DECISION, not call.

Judgment of calls
Is correct the vast majority of calls. Just plain gets the call right.

Crew Mechanics
Has a good knowledge of proper mechanics and rotates in the proper situations and is alert enough to adjust if one of his partners misses coverage. Read partners and fly balls well on outfield coverage and goes out as needed.

Crew Communications
Uses proper verbal and non-verbal communications. Establishes eye contact with partners between hitters and during developing plays.

Appearance / Presence
Looks good in the uniform. Is athletic looking and in good physical shape. Has uniform clean and pressed and shoes shined. Has good posture and professional mannerisms and body language. Looks confident, not arrogant.

Hustle
Gets into position to make all his calls. Have good agility, coordination and fluidity of movement. Does not over hustle to draw attention to him. Moves back to proper position quickly after plays.

Game Control / Demeanor
Is in control of the game while being calm, firm and assertive. Not overly aggressive in arguments but knows when to be aggressive to keep control of a situation. Is not eager to eject players or coaches but will do so when necessary.

Relations with Game Personnel
Maintains a courteous and authoritative manner in dealing with all people involved with the contest. Does not try to impress others with his position or power. Does not take advantage of this position either in asking for favors.

Focus / Alertness / Intensity
Concentrates on the action and is able to anticipate where plays or problems may arise. Does not daydream or look into the stands during play.

Off-Field Conduct
Always maintains proper decorum and professional manners while in any public situation. Represents the NCAA favorably at all times.

Receptiveness to Criticism
Possesses a willingness to learn and improve no matter how many years he has worked. Always striving to improve his umpiring.

Umpire Evaluation Criteria, Forms and Ejection Reports

PBUC Professional Rating Scale and Criteria

NCAA Umpire Evaluation Standards