This reward program is the highest honor an ASA umpire can obtain other than selection to the ASA Hall of Fame. The program was launched in 2003, with 153 umpires approved in February of that year. There are currently 360 qualified umpires that have been selected for the "Elite" program. Members who are approved as "Elite" umpires can apply for their international certification (ISF), and are the only umpires selected for the National Championship Series (SP) and the Armed Forces Slow Pitch Championships. In future years, it is anticipated that "Elite" umpires will be selected for major Fast and Modified Pitch Championships.
To become eligible for this program, an umpire must have been an ASA registered umpire for at least seven (7) years and a current member in good standing. The umpire must have participated in at least four (4) national championships, and umpired in two (2) in the same category of play and from the championships listed below:
FAST PITCH: Men's Major, Women's Major, Men's Master 40-Over, Girls 18U ASA / USA Gold, Men's "A" or Women's "A".
SLOW PITCH: Mens Super, Mens Major, Mens A, Men's B, Mens Industrial ( previously Major or A ), Mens 16 Major, Mens Masters 35-Over, Men's 40-Over, Womens Open ( previously Major or A ) CO-ED Major.
MODIFIED PITCH: Men's 9 Man Major, Men's A or Women's 9-Player, or Men's 10-Player.
The ASA/USA "Elite" umpire application fee is $40.00 and is non-refundable. The umpire will receive a lapel pin, a navy ASA/USA "Elite" cap, membership card, framed certificate, and name listed in the ASA Hall of Fame. Three passport size photos should be attached to the application. Deadline each year is October 1. Applications will be reviewed at the November Council Meeting and applicants will be notified shortly thereafter.
Print
the Elite Umpire Application Form