The free clinic was organized for anyone who wants or is interested in becoming a referee, as well as for those who just want to learn more about the game of baseball.
TALEDA, Ohio – The shortage of referees in Ohio is real, and the most affected by it are players who just want to play the game.
The Ohio High School Sports Association One has only lost more than 1,000 judges in the last three years, but this does not include all levels of youth who are also experiencing the consequences.
Games at all levels have been canceled and risk not happening because there are not enough games.
“There is a great need now,” said Mark Kuhn, a local baseball referee.
That’s why Kuhn along with other local and state referees has organized a clinic for those interested in becoming a referee, and even for parents who just want to learn more about the game.
There are several factors that affect the deficit, but Kuhn believes that the biggest reason is those in the stands and outside the fence.
“I think it’s mostly the fans and what we hear from the stands,” Kuhn said. “I think the biggest problem is that people just don’t want to hear what’s coming out of the stands.”
Because of this, there are now players and children who cannot play the game they love, but the referees also refuse the game they love.
“It’s very frustrating. We all love baseball,” Kuhn said. “The Sardis who work now, we love baseball. That’s why we do it. We hope we can help people better understand what we have to deal with, what we need to do, and get more people interested. ”
The referees hope that spectators, parents and players will be able to understand what is happening with Ump at any level.
“I think the main thing is that people just don’t understand what judges are doing,” Kuhn said. “They don’t see behind the scenes, they don’t see everything related to our workouts and things like that. Hopefully it helps.”
