HCCL Umpiring Policy

1. Purpose

This policy establishes the roles, responsibilities, and limitations regarding the use of umpires in matches organized under the auspices of HCCL. It aims to provide clarity and avoid any misinterpretation concerning the legal or financial responsibilities of the organization.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all teams, players, volunteers, and individuals participating in events, matches, or leagues organized by HCCL.

3. Umpiring Responsibility

• The responsibility of securing umpires for matches lies solely with the participating teams.
• HCCL does not guarantee the availability of umpires for any match or event.

4. Umpire Panel (Voluntary Listing)

• HCCL maintains a voluntary list of individuals (referred to as the Umpire Panel) who have self-nominated themselves to be available for umpiring duties.
• Inclusion in this list is entirely voluntary, and individuals are not employed, contracted, or compensated by HCCL.

5. Role of the Organization

• HCCL does not employ, contract, or compensate any umpire or individual listed on the Umpire Panel.
• The organization may facilitate the sharing of information between teams and panel umpires as a convenience only.
• Any arrangements, including compensation, are strictly private matters between the teams and the individuals involved.

6. Volunteer Umpiring

HCCL operates a volunteer umpiring model, where individuals from participating teams are assigned to officiate matches in which their own team is not playing. These volunteers contribute to the fairness and integrity of the league and are not considered employees or contractors of HCCL.

7. Volunteer Umpire Expense Reimbursement and Tax Implications

• HCCL provides an expense reimbursement (currently $60 per match) to help cover volunteer umpire costs. This is not considered wages or compensation for services.
• Recipients are individually responsible for tax reporting or immigration implications. HCCL does not withhold taxes or assume liability.
• If an individual receives $600 or more in a calendar year without documentation, HCCL may issue an IRS Form 1099-NEC. A W-9 form may be required before such payments.
• It is each recipient's responsibility to ensure eligibility and compliance with tax, immigration, and legal requirements.
• HCCL disclaims any responsibility for how reimbursements are treated under applicable laws.

8. Immigration and Work Eligibility

• HCCL does not verify immigration or work authorization status and does not sponsor or employ any umpires.
• Individuals are responsible for ensuring they are legally allowed to participate and receive reimbursements.
• Participation is voluntary, and by accepting reimbursement, individuals acknowledge compliance with U.S. law.

9. Disclaimer of Liability

• HCCL expressly disclaims any employment or contractual relationship with volunteer umpires.
• Any reimbursements are for out-of-pocket expenses only.
• All legal, tax, or immigration responsibilities rest solely with the individual.
• Volunteers must sign the "HCCL Umpire Acknowledgment and Compliance Form" and may be required to submit a W-9 form.

10. Policy Updates

This policy may be amended or updated as necessary. All updates will be posted on the official HCCL website. It is the responsibility of participants to review the site periodically for the most current version.