alex jones

Hello everyone, My name is Alex. I am a 15-year-old student from Kansas, and I’m writing today because I have a deep-seated passion for the game of baseball—not as a player, but as an aspiring official. I have spent a lot of time watching the game from the stands, and I’ve realized that I belong on the "third team" behind the plate. As an individual with ADHD and autism, I find that the structure and objective nature of umpiring are a perfect fit for my learning style and strengths. I thrive on clear rules, technical precision, and the high-focus environment that officiating provides. While many people find the pressure of the plate to be stressful, I find the order and logic of the rulebook to be incredibly rewarding. The Challenge: I am fully committed to learning the mechanics and the rules, but as a student, I am operating on a zero-dollar budget. The cost of entry for a new umpire—especially for the necessary safety equipment—is currently a major barrier for me. I don’t have the funds to buy a mask, chest protector, or shin guards, and without them, I obviously can't begin working games or training safely. How You Can Help: I’m reaching out to this community of veteran umpires to see if anyone has any "retired" or surplus equipment sitting in their garage that you'd be willing to donate to a young person just starting out. I’m not looking for the newest or most expensive gear; I’m just looking for safety equipment that is in good, functional condition so I can get on the dirt. Specifically, I’m looking for: A protective mask or helmet A hard-shell chest protector Shin/Leg guards Any extra accessories (indicators, plate bags, etc.) Even if you don’t have gear to give, I would value any advice on youth officiating programs, local Kansas clinics, or tips for a new kid on the block. I am eager to learn, hard-working, and ready to get to work. Thank you all for your time and for everything you do to keep the game fair for everyone. Best regards, Alex Jones