In this episode of The Pregame, Patrick sits down with Bob Leader, veteran umpire and current official's representative on the NFHS Baseball Rules Committee, to break down what’s being considered for the 2026 season. From delayed dead balls to double first bases, player-to-player communication, malicious contact, and more—this is your inside look at how rules are proposed, debated, and decided.📬 Action Item #1 : Bob wants your feedback! If you have thoughts on the proposed rule changes, email h...
May 22, 2025•45 min•Season 2025Ep. 7
In this episode, Patrick Faerber and Todd discuss one of the wildest second-round playoff series of the GHSA baseball season—and all the lessons it offered for umpires. From check swings to emotional coaches, and even a "shut up" that nearly derailed everything, they break down every key moment and decision from both games. They explore how to manage volatile coaches without losing control, when to ask for help (and when not to), and why your "relationship bank account" with a coach matters more...
May 01, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Season 2025Ep. 6
The 2025 NFHS Baseball Rules Questionnaire is out — and this episode breaks it all down. Patrick walks through the most talked-about rule changes, the most controversial survey items, and gives honest feedback on what’s working… and what’s really not. From pace of play concerns and expanded use of tech, to the ongoing dugout drama of bench jockeying and how much eye black is too much — nothing is off-limits in this review. 📊 Have your voice heard! Take the official NFHS Rules Survey before it c...
Apr 22, 2025•32 min•Season 2025Ep. 5
In this episode of The Pregame by Umpire Classroom , Patrick Faerber sits down with Jesse Fagan, a seasoned umpire and recent Referee Magazine contributor, to talk about the nuances of umpiring across different rule sets. They break down the critical differences between NFHS, NCAA, OBR, and Little League , and why umpires must be adaptable when switching between them. They also discuss: 🔹 Why rule knowledge separates top umpires from the rest 🔹 How assigning and mentorship impact umpire develo...
Feb 19, 2025•1 hr•Season 2025Ep. 4
In this episode of Umpire Classroom , Patrick Faerber sits down with NCAA Division 1 umpire Frank Barlow to discuss game management, working with coaches, and the importance of professionalism on the field. Frank shares his journey from officiating in Japan to calling games at the highest levels of college baseball. They break down key strategies for handling heated situations, the role of non-calling umpires in crew consultations, and how adopting preventive officiating techniques can reduce ej...
Feb 07, 2025•36 min•Season 2025Ep. 3
Welcome to another episode of the Umpire Classroom Podcast! In this special installment, I sit down with my friend, Bill Ward—a high school and collegiate umpire from Alabama, known for his facebook alias, Bama Umpire. We tackle some of the top questions submitted by listeners, covering crucial NFHS baseball rules and scenarios. Topics Discussed: - When to kill a play for injuries and how to handle runners. - Navigating controversial situations like props and equipment violations. - Insights int...
Jan 17, 2025•46 min
Join us for an incredible conversation with George Drouches, NCAA National Coordinator of Baseball Umpires! In this episode, George shares his journey in sports officiating, insights into the evolution of college baseball umpiring, and the NCAA’s initiatives to elevate the profession. We discuss mentorship, pathways for new umpires, and the NCAA’s Prospect Camp as a gateway for those aspiring to break into collegiate baseball. 📘 Must-Have Resource for Umpires: Get the 2025-2026 NCAA Baseball Ru...
Jan 07, 2025•29 min
In this episode, we’re kicking off 2025 with a detailed preview of what’s coming to Umpire Classroom and Referee Magazine this month. From NFHS baseball rules changes to mechanics breakdowns and exciting new guest segments, this is your ultimate guide to starting the year right as an umpire. 🔗 Important Links: Baseball Umpire Network of Trainers (BUNT): www.facebook.com/groups/umpiretraining/ 2025 NFHS Baseball Rules Changes Quiz: https://forms.gle/8uq1VnCfxaqSVrst6 Subscribe to Referee Magazin...
Jan 01, 2025•14 min
In this episode, Patrick Faerber introduces the Baseball Umpire Network of Trainers (BUNT), a groundbreaking initiative to connect and support umpire trainers and assigners across the country. Learn how BUNT can help improve education, share resources, and transform the way we prepare umpires for the game. Want more? Slides and additional resources are available in the YouTube version of this episode. Watch here: [YouTube Link] Join the group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/umpiretr...
Dec 10, 2024•17 min
Welcome back to the Umpire Classroom Podcast! Join your host, Patrick Faerber, in a fascinating episode discussing a unique substitution scenario from a recent collegiate summer game. Today, we explore the intricacies of unannounced substitutions and their implications on the game, providing a deep dive into the rules that govern these situations across different leagues. In this episode, Patrick shares his experience with a substitution that raised questions about pitcher eligibility and the co...
Jul 21, 2024•10 min
In this episode, I discuss working the recent Georgia 11u State Championship for Little League. We'll break down why traditional positions might offer better calls on bases and how Little League variations can impact gameplay. From handling tricky pickle plays to maintaining proper footwork for catch/no-catch calls, we uncover the nuances of umpiring at this vibrant level of baseball. For umpires keen on refining their skills, this episode is packed with practical advice: Learn effective positio...
Jul 14, 2024•14 min
In this episode of the Pre-Game, host Patrick Faerber tackles the age-old wisdom 'Comparison is the thief of joy' through the lens of sports officiating. Drawing from personal experiences and insights from the world of umpiring, Faerber explores how the trap of comparison can rob officials of their passion and purpose. But the real gem of this episode? An unexpected connection between comedy legend Jerry Seinfeld and the world of umpiring. Faerber reveals how a powerful anecdote from Seinfeld be...
Jun 30, 2024•15 min
In this episode, Patrick explores the subtle yet impactful techniques that can transform how umpires handle games, focusing on the importance of the basics and reading catchers effectively. With the regular season wrapping up and playoffs approaching, Patrick reflects on recent games, sharing personal experiences and lessons that emphasize the core skills every umpire should master. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with actionable insights, perfect for umpires looking to elevate their g...
Apr 12, 2024•21 min
Dive into a unique exploration of umpiring essentials and overlooked strategies in this insightful episode. Patrick shares vital tips for first-year umpires, emphasizing the importance of feedback and personal improvement to elevate their officiating skills. From the intricacies of hand mechanics to handling unexpected situations on the field, this episode is packed with wisdom not only for newcomers but also for seasoned umpires aiming to refine their craft. Whether recovering from an injury, l...
Apr 10, 2024•17 min
In this episode of "The Pregame: An Umpire Classroom Podcast," Patrick Faerber shares insights from his own umpiring experiences and evaluates common mechanics and situations faced by umpires at various levels. Patrick discusses the importance of mastering the pivot mechanic from the A position to enhance performance on the field and stand out during evaluations, especially for those aiming for deeper playoff rounds. He elaborates on his recovery from knee surgery and how it affects his approach...
Apr 05, 2024•14 min
In the inaugural episode of "The Pregame: An Umpire Classroom Podcast," Patrick Faerber opens the door to a new form of engagement with umpires across all levels. Delving into his extensive experience, Patrick shares insights from his journey through high school, collegiate, and professional umpiring, highlighting the lessons learned and the passion that drives him to educate and improve the umpiring community. With a mix of personal anecdotes, rule clarifications, and answers to common question...
Apr 02, 2024•7 min
