Jen Pawol has made history as MLB’s first female umpire, breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated sport. Her journey blends determination, skill and passion, carving a new path in baseball’s officiating world.
Beyond the field, she balances her demanding career with a rich personal life, supported by a close-knit family. Her story is not only about calling strikes but also about challenging norms and inspiring future generations.
From the early days of chasing her umpire dream to standing behind the plate in major league games, her rise is a testament to perseverance and talent. Her profile uncovers the milestones and moments that define her unique place.
How old is Jen Pawol?
Jen Pawol was born on December 29, 1976, making her 48 years old as of August 2025. She has recently achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first woman to umpire a regular-season Major League Baseball (MLB) game.
Umpire Jen Pawol calls a strike during a spring training game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Miami Marlins at Roger Dean Stadium on March 16, 2024. (Source: Rich Storry/Getty Images)
How tall is Jen Pawol?
Jen Pawol stands at 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) tall. This stature is notable, especially in the context of her athletic background. During her time at Hofstra University, she played as a catcher in Division I softball, a position that often requires a combination of agility and strength.
Jen Pawol’s love life
While Jen Pawol has not publicly disclosed details about her romantic relationships, her personal life remains a subject of interest to many. As a trailblazer in a male-dominated profession, her journey has been characterized by dedication and a focus on her career.
The support of her family and close-knit community has been instrumental in her achievements, providing her with the encouragement needed to break barriers in the world of professional baseball umpiring.
Jen Pawol’s family
Jen Pawol hails from West Milford, New Jersey, and has maintained strong connections with her family throughout her life. Her parents played a significant role in nurturing her love for sports and the arts.
Umpire Jen Pawol looks on as Christian Bethancourt attempts to catch a fly ball against the Washington Nationals during the first inning of. spring training game in 2024. (Source: Rich Storry/Getty Images)
Notably, they took her to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown when she was around seven years old, an experience that left a lasting impression on her. This early exposure to baseball’s rich history undoubtedly influenced her decision to pursue a career in the sport.
Jen Pawol’s career highlights
- Transition from softball to umpiring: After a successful college softball career as a catcher at Hofstra University and working as an art teacher, she made the bold decision to pursue professional umpiring in 2016, showing her determination to stay connected to baseball in a new role.
- Entry into Minor League Baseball: She began umpiring in the Gulf Coast League, one of the lower minor leagues, gaining vital experience and honing her officiating skills in a competitive environment.
- Breaking barriers in the Minor Leagues: She became the first woman to umpire a Minor League Baseball game in nearly a decade, paving the way for more gender inclusivity in umpiring roles traditionally held by men.
- Triple-A National Championship game (2023): Her skill and professionalism earned her the opportunity to officiate the prestigious Triple-A National Championship Game, a high-profile assignment that showcased her abilities on a bigger stage.
- Historic MLB regular-season debut: In 2024, she made history by becoming the first female umpire to officiate a regular-season Major League Baseball game, a landmark moment that reflects years of perseverance and dedication.
- Continued trailblazing role: Beyond the field, she actively inspires aspiring umpires and athletes, proving that gender does not define capability in professional sports officiating.
