This memo outlines YLO’s updated Uniform Policy for the 2026 season, reinforcing that professionalism doesn’t stop with how we call games — it begins with how we look walking onto the field. With pay rates increasing across all levels, these updates set clear expectations for consistency, credibility, and pride in appearance. The policy defines approved uniform options, details new fines for non-compliance, and explains the reasoning behind these standards: when we look like professionals, we’re treated like professionals. Every umpire should review this policy carefully.

📄 Access and download the full memo here.

This memo reinforces one of the most important habits for every umpire: reporting ejections quickly and professionally. It explains how timely communication protects you, your partner, and YLO by ensuring leadership can act before misinformation spreads. The message is clear — your job isn’t done when the coach leaves the field. Send the immediate alert, file the full report that night, and protect your crew with facts instead of emotions.

📄 Access and download the full memo here.

This memo outlines YLO’s updated enforcement policy regarding catcher helmet safety under NFHS Rule 1-5-4. It ensures that all catchers wear NOCSAE-certified helmets or helmet-mask combinations with full ear coverage, eliminating the use of unsafe two-piece skull cap setups. This standard protects players from unnecessary injury risks, reinforces liability compliance, and maintains consistent professionalism across all YLO-affiliated games. All umpires and coaches are expected to review and follow this policy to ensure player safety and rule adherence.

📄 Access and download the full memo here.

This memo delivers one of the strongest reminders of what defines YLO’s culture: leadership through action. It emphasizes that enforcing sportsmanship isn’t optional—it’s essential. Umpires set the tone for the entire game, and when we fail to penalize poor behavior, we silently permit it. This message challenges every official, especially veterans, to protect their partners, uphold standards, and lead by example. Read it carefully and remember: if you don’t eject, you endorse.

📄 Access and download the full memo here.

This memo provides a clear explanation of one of the most misunderstood areas in youth baseball — how and when a game should end. It distinguishes between the 3.5/4-inning rule for weather-related stoppages and the 1:45 time limit rule that ends a game by clock, clarifying when each applies and how to handle mid-inning situations. Every umpire should review this to avoid confusion and ensure consistency when enforcing game-ending procedures across parks and age levels.

📄 Access and download the full memo here.

This quick memo highlights one of the most important parts of our success as an association — clear communication and total professionalism on game day. It includes a recent real-world example that shows how quick, timely communication prevents game-day problems and keeps everything running smoothly. Every umpire should take a minute to review this reminder and keep the right habits top of mind heading into each week.

📄 Access and download the full memo here.