umpires

An umpire is an official in sports who enforces the rules, makes judgment calls during competition, and helps maintain fair play. The term is most commonly associated with baseball and cricket, but officials with similar roles appear in many sports under different titles such as referee or match official.

In baseball, a crew of umpires officiates games behind the plate and on the bases, calling balls and strikes and determining plays at the bags. In cricket, on-field umpires rule on dismissals, overs, and the start and end of play, while a third umpire may review decisions using video technology. In tennis, the chair umpire oversees the match with line judges assisting; in association football the central official is usually called the referee, with assistant referees handling sideline calls.

Common duties include signaling decisions with standardized gestures, keeping time, recording scores, and managing player behavior. Umpires may consult with fellow officials and use technology such as instant replay in baseball, the Decision Review System in cricket, or ball-tracking and line-calling aids in other sports. In football and other games, video assistant referees or equivalent systems assist referees.

Training and qualifications are provided by national or international governing bodies. Umpires typically must pass rule examinations, maintain physical fitness, demonstrate impartiality, and complete ongoing education. Selection and assignment are based on performance, experience, and certified levels.

Umpiring is performed under pressure and can be controversial when calls are disputed. Upholding neutrality and applying rules consistently are essential for the legitimacy of any sport, and professional umpire organizations support standards, training, and protection for officials.