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May 19, 2025
If you want to umpire baseball games in Minneapolis, you need to know the age requirements. Different leagues have different rules about minimum age. Here is what you should know for the Minneapolis area:
Minneapolis has many youth baseball programs (Little League, city recreation leagues, travel leagues). Most youth leagues allow junior umpires as young as 12 or 13 years old. In Minneapolis, city-run youth leagues and Little League programs often have junior umpire training for teenagers. For example, a 13-year-old might umpire local T-ball or Minors games. Some travel baseball organizations allow umpires at age 14 or 15, especially if they attend training clinics. Check with the specific Minneapolis league for their minimum age requirements.
High school baseball in Minneapolis is overseen by the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL). To umpire these games, most leagues require you to be at least 18 years old or a high school graduate. Minneapolis public and private schools typically follow this rule. There are rare exceptions: a very experienced 17-year-old might be allowed in some subordinate roles, but generally varsity games need adult umpires. Junior varsity or freshman games may occasionally use younger umpires (for example, 16 or 17-year-olds with proper training), but this is less common. To officiate MSHSL-sanctioned varsity games, plan on being 18.
For college-level games or adult amateur leagues in Minneapolis, umpires must also be adults. Conference rules (NCAA or NAIA) require officials to be at least 18. Adult amateur and semi-pro teams usually expect umpires to be 18 or older. By the time you reach college level, age is not usually the issue—experience and certification are required. In short, all college and adult baseball umpires in the Minneapolis area will be at least 18 years old.
Besides age, there are a few other points to keep in mind:
Age limits are in place primarily for safety and maturity. Baseballs and bats can be dangerous, so leagues want officials who can handle the speed of the game and enforce rules firmly. Older umpires are also more likely to have a thorough understanding of the rules and good judgment, which helps prevent conflicts on the field. Younger umpires can gain experience with junior programs so they are ready once they meet the official age requirement.
If you’re eager to umpire before you turn 18, look for junior umpire programs and clinics in Minneapolis. These programs teach the basics and allow you to umpire youth games as you get older. For instance, Minneapolis Park & Rec runs sports programs for teens that may include umpiring opportunities. Attend an introductory clinic (often held in spring) to begin learning mechanics and rules. Even if you are not yet 18, you can still attend junior umpire clinics and shadow experienced umpires. This training will help you be ready once you are old enough. Minnesota youth sports camps and clinics often offer introductory umpire sessions. Blue North Umpires can provide resources and point you to upcoming training and officiating programs. Reach out to Blue North Umpires or a local umpire mentor to find junior umpire clinics and summer games you can work. Plan ahead now, so you’ll be ready to step onto the field once you meet the age requirement!
