Equipment Program
BOMBA Equipment Program
BOMBA announced prior to the 2024 season that the previous umpire equipment policy was being stopped. Previously, umpires would show up to a field and a set of umpire equipment was (hopefully) located inside our equipment boxes. The umpire was responsible for fitting the equipment, advising of any repairs required and returning it to the storage bag in the box after the game. This created multiple issues with damaged and dirty equipment and unsafe conditions for the umpires. Going forward, there will be no equipment left in the boxes at the field. Further, as of the 2024 season, the old style 'balloons' used as umpire chest protection will no longer be permitted in BOMBA. Umpires are expected to wear a proper inside Chest Protector.
Umpires will now be responsible for their own equipment. This can be done in one of three ways:
- Umpires may purchase their own equipment.
- Umpires may borrow equipment from a friend or sibling.
- Umpires may rent their equipment from BOMBA.
1. For umpires that wish to purchase equipment outright, BOMBA has a discount available for umpires to purchase gear which includes a Chest Protector, Umpire Mask, Shin Guards and a Carrying Bag to keep the gear in. The cost for this set is $340 and the equipment will be adequate for most Level 3 Umpires working U22 and below. There is no requirement to purchase equipment from BOMBA. There are multiple suppliers available in the market and I would be happy to provide some information, and options should you wish to pursue other options. Anyone interested in purchasing a set should email umpireinchief@baseballburlington.com.
2. There is nothing required if you elect to borrow or share equipment. It is important that you ensure the equipment is fitted properly and appropriate for the level of baseball that you are working. You also must ensure that the equipment is available to you when you have an assignment. Umpires are responsible for bring their gear with them for both plate AND base assignments.
3. The equipment rental is likely the most cost-effective option for any new umpires or those in their first few years. Full details of the rental are listed below.
Umpire Equipment Rental Program
Pick Up Dates
Dates will be published in Ramp for Equipment Pick. Dates typically start in late April and extends into early May. Multiple dates on both Saturday morning and Wednesday evenings will be available. Time slots are set at 15 minutes and are limited to 5 umpires per time slot. A BOMBA Umpire Committee member will be present to help you size/fit the equipment. Please Log into RAMP Assigning and select one of the assignment spots. It does not matter if you select Plate, Base or Admin as your position. Spots first come first serve. All available dates should be listed as "Open Games".
Contract & Cost
A rental contract will be in place for you to complete and must be signed by a Parent/Guardian for anyone under 18. The Equipment will be yours for the season from the date of pick up until September 30. Dates will be provided later for returning the equipment. If there are any issues during the season, simply contact the Umpire-In-Chief and we'll get you are replacement item to exchange.
The cost for the rental for the season is $50. The cost is paid off in 1.6 games at the lowest pay level.
A further $50 is held as a deposit on the gear and is refunded when the gear is returned, complete, at the end of the season.
The $100 Payment can be made by debit or credit via Tap at the Office. Please note that BOMBA is cashless. All payments must be made by visa, debit or e-transfer.
Drop Off Dates
Dates will be advertised in late September for return of the equipment. A member of the Mentorship Committee must be present to inspect the equipment to attain your refund. Should the fall ball season continue into October, a notice will be provided of an extension to the rental contract for those working fall ball games. Refunds will be issued via a cheque once the terms of the contract are fulfilled.
What's Included
Umpires will be sized and fitted with a set of Shin Guards, Chest Protector and Mask. All the items come with a carrying bag to store and keep the gear in. Umpires are expected to keep their gear clean, aired out and dry. The equipment carries a value of $350 and we would like to ensure that it stays in great condition for years to come and that your deposit is returned at the end. If there are ever any concerns or questions, please reach out.
What's Excluded
Umpires are required to have their own Brush, Indicator and Ball Bag. BOMBA has sets available for any umpires who wish to purchase as a set for $20. Regular price of the items is $25 or more in most stores. These will be available at the BOMBA Office during Equipment Pick up and in our Online Store during the season.
Umpires are also responsible for their own uniform. BOMBA expects that umpires wear an umpire shirt, grey pants and a black hat. Equipment under the clothing is the expectation once umpires reach Level 3 (Starting in your 6th season). If one item had to be picked, an oversized shirt should be most ideal to go over the chest protector. See Umpire Uniform for more specifics.
If there are any questions on uniform, one of our committee members are happy to help answer questions during pick up or in advance at umpireinchief@baseballburlington.com.
Final Notes of Equipment
This initiate has BOMBA at the forefront of putting their umpire’s well-being first. We are one of a small handful of Organizations that provide equipment sets to their officials and are the only one who have a full complement of new gear available. This move from BOMBA shows a very strong level of support for our officials and starts with their safety before we ever step foot on the diamond. We are looking forward to this program being a long-term success for everyone.
Equipment Program News Release -- Press Release
