Free Umpire Clinic Offers Chance to Learn from MLB Veteran

Annual Walter Estes Umpire Clinic returns with hands-on training and job opportunities for aspiring baseball officials.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 7:38pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball umpire making a call at home plate, with the figure broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in a dynamic, multi-perspective composition.A fractured, cubist interpretation of the split-second decision-making and intense focus required of baseball umpires.Owensboro Today

The fourth annual Walter Estes Umpire Clinic is offering a free, hands-on training session on March 1 for anyone interested in learning the art of baseball officiating. Hosted by the 3rd Region Baseball Officials Association and sponsored by Independence Bank, the clinic will feature instruction from retired MLB umpire Larry Vanover and other seasoned officials. Participants will learn plate mechanics, on-field positioning, and decision-making, with the opportunity to connect with local leagues and programs seeking new umpires for the upcoming season.

Why it matters

Umpiring is a crucial but often overlooked role in baseball, requiring a unique skill set and thick skin to handle the scrutiny that comes with every call. This clinic aims to demystify the job and inspire more people to get involved, addressing the growing need for officials at all levels of the sport.

The details

The free umpire clinic will take place from 2-5 p.m. on March 1 at the Lourdes K-3 Gym in Owensboro, Kentucky. In addition to instruction from Larry Vanover and other experienced officials, the event will feature on-field training and the chance to connect with local leagues and programs seeking new umpires for the spring and summer seasons. Pre-registration by February 15 will earn participants a free clinic T-shirt.

  • The fourth annual Walter Estes Umpire Clinic will be held on March 1, 2026.
  • Pre-registration for the clinic ends on February 15, 2026.

The players

Larry Vanover

A retired MLB umpire who will be providing instruction at the umpire clinic.

Walter Estes

A beloved coach and community pillar whose legacy continues to inspire the annual umpire clinic.

Paul Leachman

The event coordinator for the Walter Estes Umpire Clinic.

Chris Hoskins

A Kentucky Farm Bureau agent who is providing additional support for the umpire clinic.

3rd Region Baseball Officials Association

The organization hosting the Walter Estes Umpire Clinic.

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What they’re saying

“There's a growing need for officials at every level. Even if we add just a few new umpires each year, it makes a big difference.”

— Paul Leachman, Event Coordinator

What’s next

Participants can pre-register for the clinic by February 15 to receive a free T-shirt. To sign up or learn more, they can call event coordinator Paul Leachman at 270-993-5603.

The takeaway

This free umpire clinic provides a valuable opportunity for baseball enthusiasts to learn the ins and outs of officiating, from plate mechanics to split-second decision-making. By inspiring more people to get involved, the clinic aims to address the growing need for qualified umpires at all levels of the sport.