REGINA — For Barrett Fleck, umpiring isn't just a job; it's a passion that has driven him to excel on the baseball diamond.
The former Bienfait resident, now studying in Regina, was recently recognized as the Junior Umpire of the Year by Baseball Saskatchewan. This prestigious award marks a milestone in his eight-year journey as an umpire, a journey defined by dedication, perseverance and a love for the game.
Fleck's journey began in his hometown of Bienfait, where he first took up the role of umpiring U11 baseball games. What started as a local opportunity quickly developed into a serious commitment.
"I really fell in love with the game of baseball and umpiring as a profession," Fleck said. "I cared to learn more and become better."
As he honed his skills, Fleck sought out opportunities to expand his umpiring experience. Six years ago, he approached Estevan Minor Baseball to inquire about umpiring more games. It was here that he met Kevin Culy, a mentor who played a significant role in Fleck's development.
"Kevin took me under his wings and taught me a lot of high-level things about baseball," Fleck recalled. "The importance of getting calls right, managing a game and handling high-pressure situations."
Over the years, Fleck's commitment to his craft led him to umpire at some of the highest levels of amateur baseball in Saskatchewan. He has been a regular figure at 18U AAA league games in Estevan and has also officiated with the Saskota Baseball League across southeast Saskatchewan.
"I travel to communities all around southeast Saskatchewan umpiring senior baseball," he explained.
His skills caught the attention of provincial baseball organizations, and last summer, he was selected to officiate at the Saskatchewan Summer Games in Lloydminster.
"I had a very good showing there and was awarded the gold medal plate for the tournament," Fleck said.
His success continued at the Softball Western Championship, where he was chosen to umpire the gold medal game for both the boys' division and a winner-winner game for girls'.
The recognition from Baseball Saskatchewan came after a nomination by his friend Wade St. Onge.
"First, he has performed in an outstanding manner. His mechanics, movement and positioning are exceptional and have been evaluated very highly. His judgment has become incredibly accurate, with him routinely making very difficult calls accurately," St. Onge wrote in his nomination.
"Second, he has contributed in many ways besides simply officiating on the diamond. He is always willing and happy to sacrifice his desire to officiate in order to help with the development of younger umpires."
Reflecting on the moment he received the award, Fleck said, "It was quite a humbling moment reading that email and learning that my hard work finally paid off. It really hit me when I was on stage, realizing I was selected by very high-level people who have seen some very high-level baseball."
For Fleck, umpiring goes beyond making calls on the field; it's about being part of a sport he loves.
"I don't really look at umpiring as a job at all. It's truly a passion of mine," he said. "Getting the award is definitely an honour, but umpiring those games is the reason I got the award. I would choose to umpire every day of the 365 days a year if I could. It's truly a passion, and I love being on the diamond."
Despite the challenges, Fleck's passion has kept him committed.
"Sometimes there are games where you have to work a little harder than others, and sometimes there are people you have to cross paths with who make umpiring a bit difficult," he admitted. "But the sun will rise again, and life goes on ... If every game was easy, I wouldn't be the umpire I am today."
Throughout his career, mentorship has been a cornerstone of Fleck's development. He credits Culy and St. Onge as key figures who helped him reach new heights.
"I want to thank all my mentors, especially Kevin and Wade," he said. "Wade not only helped me grow as an umpire but he also nominated me for this award. I'm very grateful for their guidance."
Fleck's journey as an umpire has also led him to pursue educational opportunities that align with his passion for sports. Now living in Regina, he studies at the First Nations University of Canada, focusing on secondary Indigenous education. Additionally, he is working towards a bachelor of kinesiology with a major in sports and recreation management.
"With my kinesiology degree, I'll be able to work in the sports industry if I choose to someday," he explained, adding that his studies complement his career aspirations in the world of baseball.
As he looks ahead, Fleck's next big step is a six-week training program at the Wendelstedt Umpire School in Daytona Beach, Fla., after Christmas. The program, which is led by MLB umpires, trains aspiring professionals for potential careers in professional baseball.
"Attending Wendelstedt Umpire School is the only option for me if I want to someday move up to [professional] baseball," Fleck said. "It's an incredible opportunity to learn from some of the best in the business."
The chance to study at Wendelstedt is a testament to Fleck's dedication, as the program will give him the skills and exposure needed to pursue a professional career in baseball umpiring.
"I was fortunate enough to be accepted into Wendelstedt, and it really is a step in the right direction for where I want my baseball career to take me."
For Fleck, the recognition from Baseball Saskatchewan and the opportunity to train in Florida are just the beginning.
"Saskatchewan people are crazy about baseball, and it's a huge summer sport," he said. "To be honoured as the top umpire in the entire province for the 2024 season is quite an accomplishment, and I'm very happy."
As he continues his studies and prepares for his next chapter in Florida, Fleck remains grounded in his love for the game and is grateful for the support he has received along the way.
"I want to thank everyone who has helped me, and honestly, I want to thank the people who have given me a hard time on the diamond and made me work extra hard. Because if every game was easy, I wouldn't be the umpire I am today," he said.
The award was presented in mid-October at a ceremony in Regina, where teams, coaches, umpires, and volunteers from across Saskatchewan were recognized for their contributions.
"It was a big event with a large turnout," Fleck said. "All the provincial champion teams, umpires of the year, coaches, sponsors and volunteers were recognized. It was great to see so many people who are passionate about the sport.
