CARLSBAD — A long-running youth umpire training program in Carlsbad is launching a new annual award to honor the legacy of Riley Cocks, a former umpire and high school baseball coach who passed away in 2024.
Led by umpire in chief, William L. Kemp III, the Umpire Development Program has been preparing umpires for leagues such as Carlsbad Youth Baseball and La Costa Youth Organization for the past 15 years.
“To become an umpire, candidates have to not only demonstrate technical skills and knowledge during strenuous training, but they must also exhibit heightened leadership traits such as respect, accountability, and commitment,” Kemp said. “Riley Cocks was and continues to be a very special part of our community, and he exemplified all of these traits and more.”
The program’s new R Achievement Award, named after and based on Cocks’ initials (RAC), also stands for respect, accountability and commitment — qualities he was known for in the local baseball community.
An annual recognition pin will be presented to a standout youth umpire who exemplifies these traits.
The inaugural award will be presented at 3:45 p.m. Saturday at Calavera Community Park during the program’s graduation ceremony, which Cocks’ father, a seasoned umpire and umpire instructor, is expected to attend.
“Each year, it will be passed on to the next outstanding umpire to carry on Riley’s legacy, to recognize the kids that exemplify a lot of his traits that were fully appreciated by the baseball community and beyond,” said Tracie Carroll, a volunteer and member of the youth baseball community.
Participants in the Umpire Development Program undergo intensive yearly training, including two full-day on-field sessions, three classroom-based rule sessions, and practice games before officiating in league play.
This year’s program has drawn 45 participants, ranging from 6 to 13 years old, making it the largest group of umpire candidates.
“The cool thing about this unique and prestiguous umpire program is that the growth and development of it is purely by word of mouth and respected referrals, and this year’s high numbers demonstrate its reputation and success,” Carroll said. “It’s a great way for the kids to earn their own money umpiring games while also learning a new skill that will benefit them on and off the field.”
Cocks, who coached at La Costa Canyon High School and Sage Creek High School, was widely respected in North County’s baseball community. His contributions to the sport and mentorship of young athletes left a lasting impact.
By establishing the R Achievement Award, organizers hope to keep his legacy alive, inspiring future generations of umpires to uphold the values he represented.
