In high school baseball, umpires have the responsibility to not only govern the game, but also to set a good example for players. As a result, these individuals must maintain an awareness of their behavior while they call the game while keeping an eye on player safety. Umpires must also maintain awareness of their rule interpretations, as young players will carry these rule interpretations with them well into the future.
Equipment
In some cases, players might require extra equipment in case of an injury. This equipment can include braces, casts or additional padding to protect an injury. Whenever a player wears this additional equipment, the umpire has the responsibility to examine these devices before the player enters the game. Padding that's worn on a cast must also remain a neutral color so it does not interfere with a batter's ability to see the ball.
Injuries
Because of the age of high school players, umpires must keep an eye out for injuries and prohibit players from participating if the situation appears dangerous. In some cases, the player will misinform his coach about the severity of an injury so he can stay in a game. If an umpire notices, for example, that a player appears dizzy after a collision, the umpire must force that player to leave the game and he cannot return until he has received professional medical clearance.
Hazardous Conditions
Once a game begins, the umpire maintains full control over the continuation of a game and can stop it at any time if the conditions become dangerous. If the umpire does not act on these hazardous conditions, school officials can intervene and tell the umpire to put a halt to the game immediately. All players must immediately move to safety once dangerous weather conditions arise. The umpire and school officials must agree on the length of the delay and can only resume the game if they both decide that the conditions have passed.
Alcohol and Tobacco
All officials and coaches must refrain from using alcohol or any tobacco products when in view of the players during an event. Umpires must maintain caution in these situations because fans and players alike can report any violations.
Sportsmanship
The umpire must ensure that all players can coaches follow the sportsmanship rules put forth by the league's governing body. The umpire can eject these players and coaches for violations and if the umpire ejects a coach, another school official must take over the team immediately or the team will forfeit the game.
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