Game Cancellations
All efforts are made to ensure that we can play games safely on the scheduled game day and time. There are occasions when we have to cancel and/or reschedule games. Below are some of the potential scenarios that you should be aware of as an umpire.
Before a Game:
If a game is cancelled by the league or conveners prior to 15 minutes of the scheduled start time of a game, assigned umpires will be notified of the cancellation and instructed not to arrive at the diamond. The umpire assignments may or may not be the same for the rescheduled game.
If a game is cancelled within 15 minutes of the scheduled start time by the league or conveners, umpires will be compensated at 50% of their scheduled pay for the game. The umpire assignments may or may not be the same for the rescheduled game.
When a game has started:
Once a game begins, umpires are the in charge of the game and, in consultation with coaches, may decide to delay and/or cancel a game due to weather or other potential safety concerns. If a game is called, umpires will be compensated at 100%. The umpire assignments may or may not be the same for the rescheduled game.
The safety of the umpires, players, coaches and spectators is the primary concern - games can be rescheduled.
If there is thunder or lightning in the area, games must be delayed 30 minutes until the last clap of thunder or lightning. That timer is reset for each instance of either.
It is extremely dangerous to be outdoors when you hear thunder. Coaches, players, umpires and parents should immediately seek shelter within a building if possible. If no building is available, go to a car or truck or other hardtop vehicle and stay inside until 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder. No place outside is safe during a thunderstorm.