In a move that combines community service with the love of sports, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is launching a campaign to recruit and train new sports officials for the upcoming spring and summer seasons. The call is out for umpires and referees for games including sand volleyball, softball, baseball, kickball, and soccer, according to the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board.

Those interested in slipping into stripes can earn a minimum of $27 per game, with the promise of higher rates for most sports. Officials also get the chance to stay active, and engaged in the community, and contribute to the continuity of local sports programs. As stated by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, "Serve your community – we need you to keep sports programs going!" The details for potential candidates outline a simple three-step process: pass a background check, register online, and complete the necessary hiring paperwork.

Upcoming events include a Youth Baseball and Softball Umpires Clinic on April 3, and a Sand Volleyball Officials Clinic on April 11. Clinics for Adult Soccer Officials and Adult Softball and Kickball Umpires are also in the pipeline with multiple dates throughout April. As per the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, "These clinics are free and walk-ins are welcome!" cementing their desire to make the process as accessible as possible.

For those interested in honing their referee skills further, a Live Training Clinic, which includes umpiring actual games, is scheduled for May 5. This is a unique opportunity for first-year umpires to gain real experience on the field with guidance from seasoned professionals of the Minneapolis Umpires Association (MUA).of the game.