Umpire facts for kids
An umpire is a very important person in sports. They make sure that games like Major League Baseball, tennis, and cricket are played fairly. Umpires help everyone follow the rules. They are like the judges of the game.
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What is an Umpire?
An umpire is an official who controls a sports game. Their main job is to make sure all the rules are followed. They also decide what happens during the game. This helps keep the game fair for all players. Umpires are needed in many different sports.
Why Umpires Are Important
Umpires are crucial for a smooth game. Without them, players might argue about rules. They make quick decisions during fast-paced games. This helps the game keep moving. Umpires also make sure players act respectfully.
What Do Umpires Do?
Umpires have many important jobs during a game. They are in charge from start to finish. Here are some of their main duties:
Starting and Ending Games
Umpires are the ones who signal when a game begins. They also decide when the game is officially over. This makes sure everyone knows when to play and when to stop.
Enforcing the Rules
This is one of the umpire's biggest jobs. They know all the rules of the sport. If a player breaks a rule, the umpire will notice. They then make a call based on what the rules say. This keeps the game fair for both teams. They also make sure the playing area is safe and correct.
Making Judgment Calls
Many things happen quickly in sports. Umpires have to make fast decisions. For example, in baseball, they decide if a pitch is a "strike" or a "ball." In tennis, they decide if a shot landed "in" or "out." These are called "judgment calls." They use their experience to make the best decision.
Giving Out Discipline
Sometimes, players might not follow the rules or act unfairly. Umpires can give out penalties. This might mean a player has to sit out for a short time. Or, they might give a warning. This helps keep the game safe and respectful.
Images for kids
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A goal umpire officiating between the goal posts at one end of an Australian rules football field
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Referee in bandy
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A second base umpire at a baseball game
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A college basketball official making a call
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A boxing referee counting a boxer
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A cricket umpire calling a batsman out
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An American football referee (right, in white cap) announces a call. The other officials wear black caps
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An association football referee making a call
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Gaelic football referee (in blue shirt)
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Hurling refereeing team. The referee, linesmen and sideline official wear blue shirts and black shorts, while the umpires wear white coats.
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An ice hockey referee
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A rugby league referee (left) sending a player to the sin bin for ten minutes
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A rugby union referee calling a knock-on
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A squad of shooters get their stage brief by an IROA Range Officer on Stage 11 of the 2017 IPSC Rifle World Shoot.
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A gyōji, indicated by the solid purple tassels on his outfit.
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A chair umpire prior to the start of a tennis match
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A referee (right) issues a yellow card to a player during a game of association football.
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