An umpire or ref is vital for the success of an athletic program, but combative folks in the bleachers have led to some challenges in recruiting game officials.
March 20, 2025
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March 21, 2025 3 a.m.
Referee shortage hits local fields
EPHRATA – Local communities have been feeling the impact of the nationwide officiating shortage which has had an impact on all sports. According to Bruce Shields, an officiant signer for Washington State, before COVID the area had over 100 umpires ready to officiate for baseball and as of last year that number had dropped down to 37.