National UIC’s Call - Softball Australia...2015/01/12 · January 2015 Click here to submit your umpiring news articles National UIC’s Call With Tricia Sibraa Wow what a start

January 2015

Click here to submit your umpiring news articles

National UIC’s Call With Tricia Sibraa Wow what a start to the 2015 softball season we have had. With 260 games in three weeks, we have had hot competition, hot weather, wet weather, tie-breakers, appeals, protests, ejections and five successful candidates.

This year was made extra busy with the U15 Regional Championships being held in conjunction with the U19 National Championships. This allowed developing umpires the opportunity to have a taste of what umpiring at a National Championship is all about and have the chance to watch Australia’s best umpires go about their duties. The U17 Combined National Championships was the only Championships this year to hold examination games. I am pleased to announce that we had five successful Level 5 Candidates. Congratulations Andrew Compton (New South Wales), Dale Kaimoana (Queensland), Graeme Love (Queensland), Krissi Travers (New South Wales) and Alan Walsh (Queensland). Continue the good work and hopefully this is the start of a long national umpiring career. January may have been about national umpires of the now but 2014/15 also seen some of our umpiring legends get inducted into Softball Australia Hall of Fame. Congratulations to Andrew Rindfleish and Di Waller on their respective inductions within their home states of NSW and Victoria. To read more on Andrew Rindfleish’s induction go to nswumpires.softball.org.au and Di Waller’s induction go to Softball Australia facebook. Softball Australia Umpiring Committee would like to take this opportunity to reach out to umpires around Australia and say thank you for all the hard work you have been putting into our sport over the 2014/15 summer. Without your continued support our umpiring program would not continue to grow and develop such amazing umpires. We are looking for your support to keep great articles coming in future editions of BNOL. We would like to hear about what is happening around your association whether it is umpire development, umpire achievement or just a good story about a game you had umpiring. Please email your report and photos to [email protected] and see your report in the next edition of BNOL. This edition is packed full of stories from nationals and state events.

Enjoy the first edition of BNOL for 2015!

mailto:[email protected]

http://nswumpires.softball.org.au/news/Rindfleish-inducted-into-Hall-of-Fame-x-37871.html

https://www.facebook.com/SoftballOz/photos/a.591324404263061.1073741837.104394036289436/885416864853812/?type=1&theater



Features

Umpire Manual Competition ........................................................................................ 3

International News ...................................................................................................... 4

National News............................................................................................................. 4

Combined U19 Men’s National and U15 Boy’s Regional Championships ................... 7

U15 Boy’s Regional Championships ........................................................................... 9

U15 Girls Regional Championship ............................................................................ 10

Australian Capital Territory........................................................................................ 12

Queensland .............................................................................................................. 19

Victoria ..................................................................................................................... 26

Upcoming Events

20th-22nd February 2015 2015 Softball Australia Down Under Series Blacktown International Sportspark, New South Wales 3rd-7th March 2015 John Reid Shield Redlands Softball Association, Queensland 21st-22nd March 2015 Blacktown Junior International Challenge Blacktown International Sportspark, New South Wales 3rd-6th April 2015 Waverley Easter Tournament Glen Waverley, Victoria 24th-27th April 2015 U23 Women & U23 Men’s National Championships Redlands Softball Association, Queensland 24th-27th April 2015 Southern Cross Challenge Redlands Softball Association, Queensland



Softball Australia Limited

Level 1, Suite 2

273 Wellington Street

Collingwood VIC 3066

t +61 3 9417 0022

f +61 3 9417 3399

e [email protected]

w www.softball.org.au

Umpire Manual Competition

Softball Australia in conjunction with the National Umpiring Committee are looking to the

Softball community to create the new branding of the umpire manuals.

We are asking you, the softball community, to think outside the diamond to create a new

branding that symbolises softball, umpiring, professionalism and quirky.

There are three (3) requirements for manual covers:

Softball Australia Logo

Australian Sports Commission Logo

Title of manual

Submit your artwork in the provided template and send to [email protected]

along with:

Name: Address:

Suburb: State:

Postal Code: Phone:

Email address:

Upload document (word, jpeg or pdf)

The Competition winner will have their name and artwork published in the March edition of

BNOL and will receive Merchandise to the value of $100 as their prize.

Closing date: COB 6th March 2015

Terms and Conditions

Entry is open to all members of Softball Australia. Softball Australia and the National Umpire

Committee will judge the entries. The winner will be notified by telephone by end of March

before being published in BNOL. Prize will be sent out to the winner, to the preferred postal

address.



http://www.softball.org.au/



International News 2015 ISF XIV Men’s World Championship – Saskatoon, Canada The latest news coming out of ISF is the announcement of the umpiring crew for the 2015 ISF XIV Men’s World Championship to be held in Saskatoon, Canada from 26th June – 5th July 2015. Congratulations to State Director of Queensland Darren Sibraa on his appointment to this year’s Men’s World Championship. To find out a full list of appointed umpires go to 2015 ISF XIV Men’s World Championship.

Photo and comment from Darren Sibraa courtesy of Softball Australia

National News Australian Development Squad Debbie Grove, Umpire in Chief – Development would like to announce the Umpires that are in the Australian Development Squad. Hayden Wood South Australia Chris Trengove Victoria Stuart Tyler Victoria Richard Dodds Victoria These umpires along with other eligible umpires are able to opt in and out of the Australian Development Squad throughout the next ISF Certification period. The NUC and all the Umpiring fraternity would like to wish all these Umpires all the best in their Development.


https://www.facebook.com/bob.stanton3/posts/10153113490064031?comment_id=10153123114579031&notif_t=feed_comment_reply


Women in Blue – Stand United

When Softball Australia launched the #softballselfie this #summerofsoftball the players were quick to get on board. The girls in blue at the U17 Combined National Championships joined in on the action to not just post a selfie but a promotion of female umpires in sport. These six ladies are just a handful of high leveled female umpires getting the job done on and off the diamond all round Australia every week. With hard work and dedication, females can do this job too. Not only are these women a force on the diamond, three of them have management positions: Debbie Grove National Umpire in Chief – Development, Kyira Cox, National Umpire Staff member – Communications and Sarah Houston, State Director of ACT.

Umpires starting from left front: visiting Canadian umpire Claire Austring, Amanda Houison (New South Wales), Sarah Houston (Australian Capital Territory), Kyira Cox (New South Wales),

Debbie Grove (Victoria) and Krissi Travers (New South Wales)



2015 Softball Australia Down Under Series Congratulations to the following umpires who have accepted an invitation from Softball Australia to umpire at the 2015 Softball Australia Down Under Series at Blacktown

International Sportspark from 20th-22nd February 2015. Tricia Sibraa (TCU), Andrew Rindfleish, Brett Attkinson, Andrew Compton, Amanda Houison, Yvonne Kahler, Leanne Gearside, Bruce McCahon, Robert McIntosh, Krissi Travers and Claire Austring. Blacktown International Sportspark will host Japan Toyota Red Terriers, CTI Aussie Spirit, CTI Aussie Pride and NSW Invitational in a three day series. For more information on this fantastic series visit www.softball.org.au Good Luck to the umpires and players.

Game Schedule for 2015 Softball Australia Down Under Series Friday 20th February 2015 5:00pm Dia 1 Japan Toyota v CTI Aussie Pride 5:00pm Dia 2 Australian Open Invitational v NSW Invitational 8:00pm Dia 1 Japan Toyota v NSW Invitational 8:00pm Dia 2 CTI Aussie Pride v Australian Open Invitational Saturday 21st February 2015 4:30pm Dia 1 Japan Toyota v CTI Aussie Pride 4:30pm Dia 2 Australian Open Invitational v NSW Invitational 7:30pm Dia 1 Japan Toyota v Australian Open Invitational 7:30pm Dia 2 CTI Aussie Pride v NSW Invitational Sunday 22nd February 2015 10:00am Dia 1 Japan Toyota v NSW Invitational 10:00am Dia 2 Australian Open Invitational v CTI Aussie Pride 12:30pm Dia 1 Japan Toyota v Australian Open Invitational 12:30pm Dia 2 CTI Aussie Pride v NSW Invitational Follow these games live through Softball Australia Results


http://www.softball.org.au/news/World-class-women's-softball-returns-to-Blacktown-International-Sportspark-20-22-February-2015-x-38175.html

http://www.softball.org.au/drawresult.asp?comp=34862&OrgID=1&menu=15833


Combined U19 Men’s National and U15 Boy’s Regional Championships Blacktown International Sportspark, 6th-10th January 2015

The summer of softball kicked off in Sydney on 6 January when Softball NSW hosted the 27th U19 Men's Softball National Championship and the 2nd U15 Boy’s Regional Championships. Fifteen full-time umpires were supported by a further five part-time umpires as they covered 24 games of the U19 competition and 27 games of the combined U15 competition. The crew was led by two separate TCUs – Leigh Evans (U19 Men’s) and Ron Houison (U15 Regionals). Highlights of the combined championships included the camaraderie of junior and senior umpires, as well as the ongoing feedback umpires received. Local NSW umpires Tom Ryan and Mac Reith-Snare said that the opportunity to work a week-long championship was great, so too the quality feedback following each game. “I particularly enjoyed the chance to live in with all of the other umpires, as this doesn’t ordinarily happen at the state championship level,” Ryan said. “The feedback from senior umpires, as well as the opportunity to watch them work their own games, was a highlight for me,” Reith-Snare added. “We also enjoyed meeting interstate umpires, including those who travelled from Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and the ACT.”



An international visitor, Claire Austring, from Canada, also bolstered the crew. Austring is currently spending an extended period of time in Australia and joined the U15 Regionals crew. “It was great to work the championship with my Aussie friends. I liked seeing how your national championships are run and certainly enjoyed my time on and off the diamond, meeting new friends and being part of some great softball action,” she said. The championships were played under largely sunny skies, with only one rain delay on Friday night. The hot weather certainly matched the hot competition on the diamond, particularly in the U15 competition. Congratulations to the following umpires who were appointed to Grand Finals: U19 Men’s National Final – NSW (8) defeated ACT (0): Plate – Richard Barrow (VIC) 1st Base – Debbie Grove (VIC) 3rd Base – Hayden Wood (SA) Left Field – Jamie Harries (QLD) Right Field – Richard Dodds (VIC) U15 Boy’s Regional Final – QLD Thunder (7) defeated QLD Storm (4): Plate – Andrew Dickson (ACT) 1st Base – Claire Austring (Canada) 3rd Base – Tom Ryan (NSW)



U15 Boy’s Regional Championships From a Canadian’s Perspective My name is Claire Austring and I am an umpire visiting from Surrey, British Columbia on the West Coast of Canada. This will be my 17th season umpiring fastpitch. For the last few years, I’ve hoped to bring my gear to Australia to see how things are done Down Under. Mid September, the opportunity presented itself so I packed my ball gear, made the trip down here, and started my holiday/year abroad with Ron & Amanda Houison. We had met in 2013, when Ron officiated at the Canadian Open Fastpitch International Championship hosted by my home town, and Amanda was introduced that week as well, after she called the Jr Women’s World Championship, held in Ontario, CANADA. With permission and encouragement from my provincial (state) and national umpires-in-chief, I was hoping to make my way around Australia visiting and billeting with other umpires while calling as much ball as I can. After warming up at the Open Men’s Skins tournament before Christmas in Canberra, I was asked to officiate at the U15 Boys’ Regional Championship held in Blacktown at the same time as the U19 Men’s National Championships, and was thrilled to do so. Our crew was comprised of several experienced umpires along with a couple junior umpies and we all worked hard to help each other learn and develop on and off the field, PLUS we had the benefit of being able to watch and learn from the blue crew calling the 19’s national. The crews worked well together and the umpies working the 19’s games gave us lots of time and insight in to officiating as well as providing an awesome off-diamond atmosphere between and after games. Ron Houison was our TCU, while Leigh Evans lead the 19’s crew, and they both gave us fabulous feedback throughout the week and lots of time to ask questions and go over mechanics. The umpies from the 19’s crew also offered their mentorship throughout the week and it seemed like most of us spent full days at the park, watching and supporting our crew-mates instead of heading back to the accommodation early. Having worked at several provincial, regional, and national championships at home in Canada it was awesome to be able to compare the differences in the each country’s program, and encouraging to know that we seem to do a lot of things the same way and, ultimately, all like to have fun! Having watched the Olympic Games hosted by Sydney in 2000, it was a highlight of my career to work a game behind the plate on diamond 1 at Blacktown International Sports Park and what made it even more special was having my friends and parents in the stands there to see it. My Mom and Dad made the trip down to cheer me on when they heard where the tournament was, knowing how much it meant to me to be calling in that park. It was a huge benefit for the green and training umpies to work with and watch the “seasoned vets,” and just such a blast to umpire with everyone there. Overall, it was amazing to be part of such a fabulous crew and it will be a week that I always remember. Claire Austring Softball Canada - Level IV Umpire [email protected]



U15 Girls Regional Championship West Beach, Adelaide, 11th-17th January 2015

Front Row (L to R): Connie Rowe, Lindy White, Breanne O’Connor, James Townsend, Kiri Scott, Joanne Voltz

Back Row (L to R): Kevin Tannebring (TCU), Glenn Harrison, Andrew Ray, Georgia Kiel, Paul Brooking, Jacqui Crafter (DTCU).

Softball S.A. hosted nine visiting teams with two of their own making up what proved to be a very even 11 team tournament. NSW presented three teams, QLD and SA two teams and ACT, Victoria and WA one team each. The beach side accommodation at the Adelaide Shores Resort Cabins was within walking distance from the Softball S.A. complex, with the airport only a 5 minute drive away. The adjacent Adelaide Shores Golf Clubhouse was a convenient venue for meals as was the Glenelg Tourist Strip only another 5 minutes away. Unfortunately, the multi-million dollar upgrade of the Softball/Baseball Complex was far from complete, but all of the playing surfaces were presented in good order. The enclosed Diamond 1 was available to the U15's on most days (U19's hijacked it when their skinned diamonds were unplayable on day 2 due to rain) with 3 open diamonds being utilised. While this Tournament was a development tournament for players and umpires, every effort was made to replicate a normal National Championship experience for the Umpiring Crew, many of whom were experiencing their first full tournament outside of their own state. And what a crew it was, with ages ranging from 15 to 50 and the girls outnumbering the boys six to five. There was plenty of good natured banter off diamond, with the young ones probably giving more than they got. No names - but there were a few absolute rat bags amongst this crew who made the week so enjoyable. Connie Rowe's pre breakfast swim regime didn't get any support from other crew members, (it wasn't exactly beach weather at that time of morning), but Georgia Kiel's pre-game warmups certainly did - her up, over and around the sand hills attempts at catching seagulls was the early morning entertainment - the gulls



proved too good however. The one early night back to the accommodation wasn't wasted, with the water sports competitions being a lot of fun. With every umpire doing at least two games every day, with the occasional triple thrown in, the opportunity to gain experience was certainly not lost with any of them. The gain in confidence as the week progressed was amazing and there were many difficult calls well executed. They were tested with batting out of order appeals, unannounced substitutions, a line up sheet with seven of the players listed with incorrect numbers and even a successful batting out of order appeal with the same batter also being an unannounced substitute, to list just a few - and they got them all correct - amazing! The ability to watch the more experienced U19 Crew go about their business, was also a great learning experience. Surely their appetites to progress to become a National Tournament Umpire was fuelled with their performances. To work with a group who were so willing to accept advice and to really extend themselves was really rewarding. There is some real talent coming through our umpiring system. Thanks to Jacqui Crafter for all of her admin assistance & for the amazing array of healthy food provided throughout the week. Prelim Final Umpires were Plate - Andrew Ray (ACT), 1st Base Joanne Voltz (QLD) and 3rd Base Georgia Kiel (NSW) Grand Final - Plate James Townsend (NSW), 1st Base Connie Rowe (SA) and 3rd Base Lindy White (NSW) Let’s hope this tournament is the start of a great journey in the world of umpiring. Written by: Kevin Tannebring (Tournament Chief Umpire)



Australian Capital Territory SUAACT – 50 Years A highly successful lunchtime softball competition was established in the Commonwealth Public Service in Melbourne in the post-World War II years. With the beginning of the transfer of the Public Service from Melbourne to Canberra in the 1950’s a similar competition was soon in full swing in the National Capital. This quickly led to the establishment of a weekend competition for women in 1959, known originally as the Federal District Women’s Softball Association (now Softball ACT). Those involved with the umpiring program in the embryonic association soon recognised that, if the sport was to reach its full potential in the ACT, there was a need for a more formal approach to help umpires to fully develop their skills. As a consequence the Women’s Softball Umpires Association of the Australian Capital Territory (quite a mouthful) was established in 1965. “Women’s” was later dropped from the name and the Association is now more commonly referred to as SUAACT. It became an incorporated body on 7 December 1998. SUAACT is now in its 50th year. The first meeting of the Association was held on 28 September 1965. The election for the inaugural Executive Committee chose the following office bearers:

President: Ernie Kitchener Vice-President: Norma Jurd Secretary/Treasurer: Dane Dahlberg

Dane Dahlberg was appointed Allocation Secretary and Peter Hill Assistant Allocation Secretary. The Executive formed the Selection Sub-committee. In the early years umpire examinations were generously conducted by members of the Victoria Softball Umpires Association. The first members to achieve ACT umpire qualifications were Dane Dahlberg, Peter Hill, Norma Jurd and June Williamson at the Victorian Championships in Traralgon in 1966. June Williamson went on to become the first member to obtain AA (now Level 6) qualification (No 36) in Sydney in 1968 to be followed by Pat Stuckey (Shearwood) (No 41) in Hobart in 1971. So far 13 members have achieved AA or Level 6 accreditation, the most recent being Mark Gallagher (No 174), 4 at Level 7 and 1 at Level 8 (Ken Culpitt). The first member to be registered with the International Softball Federation was Dan McKay in 1979. As with all organisations membership has varied from year to year. There were 10 members in the first year. Membership has reached between 40 and 50 in some years and currently stands at around 30. In its 50 years of existence the Association has embraced a total of 250 members. There is one achievement we are particularly proud of. Representations made by Softball Canberra (now SACT) with a little assistance from SUAACT to Softball Australia in the late ‘70s in relation to umpiring requirements at the national level led first of all to the introduction of a Director of Umpiring in each State/Territory and the way in which umpires are appointed to National Championships. Ultimately, and in a very roundabout way, it also led to Softball



Australia setting up the 1985 review into umpiring across Australia. The review led to the establishment (with only some minor tweaking since) of the current method by which umpiring is administered and qualifications achieved uniformly throughout the country. Over the years many people have made significant contributions to SUAACT. One person who stands out in this area is Dan McKay. Dan joined SUAACT in 1966, is now in his 49th year of membership and has been a Life Member since 1980. We thank him for his efforts over the years and wish him well for the future. Other long-term members include Ken Ryan (RIP) (40 years), Mike Sandford (RIP) (38 years), Ken Culpitt (30 years), Helen Wallis-Dunn (26 years) and Di Kropp (24 years). They have all been granted Life Membership as well. KC and Helen have since returned to live in their native Queensland with their respective families while Di is still soldiering on. In recent years, Mark Gallagher, Brett Atkinson, Dick Gallagher, Alex Turnbull and Sarah Houston have been honoured with Life Memberships. SUAACT is alive and well and we look forward to the next 50 years!!

Tricia Sibraa (QLD) congratulating Mark Gallagher (ACT) on receiving his Australian Cap Number

Mark Gallagher, Di Kropp and Andrew Dickson



Annual Men’s Skins 2014

The first weekend in December saw teams and umpires from most parts of the country return to Canberra for the annual Men's Skins tournament. This year saw the usual down pour of rain which cancelled out most of the A grade games on Saturday with about half the B grade games going ahead due to being able to use the grassed diamonds, but unfortunately, lightning and rain cancelled games after 2pm. This saw the usual game of cards go ahead until the order was given that the rest of the day was a wash out. This year not only saw new umpires attend their first Skins tournament but we also truly became international when Canadian umpire Claire Austring come down to see what all the fuss was about, and I am sure Claire left with some fond memories, new friends and an awesome bruise in the shape of the map of Canberra!!. The final day saw a sensational crew photo with a presentation to Mark Gallagher of his Level 6 Australian Umpire Cap. Well done Mark. We also had Leith Roberts successful in his re assessment for his Level 3. Well done Leith. On behalf of FPSL, SUAACT, Sarah Houston (SDU) and myself, I would like to thank all the umpires who came out this year and did an awesome job in difficult conditions. Thanks to Kyira Cox for coming out and assisting with our re assessment, doing some valuable mentoring and assisted the weather committee.

Starting at front left Sarah Houston, Clare Austring, Rhonda Rowe, Krissy Travers, Trevor Murphy, Georgia Hill, Andrew Compton, Hayden Wood, Andrew Dickson, Leith Roberts, Debbie Grove, Kieran Wright, Tricia Sibraa (A-Grade TCU), Leigh

Evans, Dylan Murdoch, Mark Williams, David Addlem, Stuart Tyler, Mark Gallagher, Brett Attkinson, Kyira Cox and Kevin Tannebring



Congratulations to those umpires who umpired the Grand Finals.

Lastly, I would like to thank Tricia Sibraa who as usual did a super job looking after the tournament in her role at TCU and helping me out with the B grade allocations. I look forward to seeing everyone back with hopefully more new umpires next year. Written by: Brett Attkinson (B-Grade UIC)

Trevor Murphy, Chris Trengove, Debbie Grove and Leigh Evans

Andrew Dickson, Clare Austring and Georgia Hill



Australia Day Softball Carnival 2015

Another year past and another croquenbouche? (see BNOL Mar/Apr 2014 if you don’t immediately get that joke). Another Australia Day Carnival in Canberra with 47 FT and 10 PT umpires covering over 260 games over 3 days is impressive to say the least. A great weekend was had with the obligatory storm on Saturday evening and glorious Canberra sunshine the next day. Congratulations to Sarah Houston for a great job as TCU, ably supported by the Management Crew of Mark Gallagher, Brett Atkinson, Di Kropp, Kyira Cox, Alex Turnbull, Martin Turnbull and Andrew Dickson. It was great to see Alex back in Canberra with his calm, disposition and humour, but alas work commitments drew him back to Adelaide once again.

Martin Turnbull also made what seems like an annual pilgrimage to Canberra to assist with the assessment of two local umpires. Thanks Martin and congratulations to Kieran Wright for achieving his Level 2 accreditation and Andrew Ray, for achieving his Level 3. You both did a great job and demonstrated that hard work pays off.

Sarah Houston congratulating Kieran Wright on obtaining his Level 2



Darren Sibraa and Debbie Grove stayed behind after a long week of Nationals to offer support and advice to our assessing crew. Their feedback was invaluable and appreciated by all. Thank you both of you. Congratulations to all the umpires who were appointed to Grand Finals on Day 3. The U17 Girls grand final was a real cracker, with the result only being decided on the final play of the 3rd extra tie-breaker innings with some dramatic and close calls at the plate, the crowd was treated to a fantastic display of quality under pressure umpiring - well done to the team of Lucy, Andrew and Trai. Seeing Lucy’s face when she came back to the umpire sheds reminded us all why we do what we do – a game for the scrap book!!! Not sure if Lucy has come back down to earth yet!.

Grade Plate 1st 3rd

u19B Al Cooper Andrew Dickson Craig Sexton u17B Dylan Murdoch Katrina Bulmer James Townsend u17G Lucy James Andrew Cooper Trai Hildebrand u17G Tom Ryan Maryke Gyzen Gill Beath u15G Darren O'Neill Joe Myers Hayden Dudfield u15G Joe Kellermier James Scott u13B Rod Bailey Alf Chapman u13G Ray Crosby Tony Beard u13G Jennie McKenny Flora Van Der Heide

A very big thank you to all the umpires and families that made the special effort to come to Canberra. Despite being a little cramped in the change rooms, it really was a great three days of softball with a fantastic crew. We hope to see you all again next year.

Written by: Andrew Dickson

Sarah Houston congratulating Andrew Ray on achieving his Level 3

Andrew Dickson, Allan Cooper, Craig Sexton James Townsend, Dylan Murdoch, Katrina Bulmer



Trai Hildebrand, Lucy James, Andrew Cooper Maryke Gyzen, Tom Ryan, Gill Beath

Hayden Dudfield, Darren O'Neill, Joe Myers Alf Chapman, Rod Bailey

James Scott, Joe Kellemier Ray Crosby, Tony Beard

Flora Van Der Heide, Jenny McKenny



Queensland From the list below choose what you would consider important to you when you attend an umpiring gathering. Angles New friendships Rotations Rules Timing Hussle Paton leather shoes Scenarios Strike zone Catch ups Camaraderie Mechanics Judgement calls Is Camaraderie in your top 4? If it is, then you have chosen what 99% of umpires would appreciate after coming away from a tournament, championship or simple gathering of umpires. Have you heard the saying - " Iron Sharpens Iron" ?.. When umpires get together they often talk about rules and scenarios. This informal chatter helps keep everyone sharp. Always learning, or refreshing things they already knew. Like fire rages when all the coals are together, if you take a single coal away, that coal will go out. My point being when we meet we encourage each other and our passion for umpiring gets a boost and stays on fire. The following articles are examples of fellow umpires getting together and spurring each other on.

Queensland State Primary School Championship, August 2014

The State Primary Softball Championship of 2014 was exhilarating. The Blue Crew consisted of Bronte Seng, Bailey Steinberg, Kira Abell, Marita Abell, Callum Thiess, Oliver Wadwell, Breanna O'Connor, Jacque O'Connor, Nikita Ireland, Lailani Shepherd and Jonathan Rosemeier. That's 11 student umpires many of whom were experiencing the largest crew of our short careers so far. Rounding off the crew in the senior ranks were Bruce Clifford, Brian Macpherson, Allison Heiner and long serving local umpire, Trosty. Apparently, he only has the one name according to the Bundaberg fraternity, despite him protesting otherwise.

We all had a wonderful experience because we gained new knowledge and new management skills under the tuition of TCU, Ron Yardley. During the four days we all shared our stories and jokes (some old and recycled) and had plenty of fun in the umpire's room. It seemed like a large room when we first looked in but became

Grand Final Crew and TCU Ron Yardley Breanna O”Conor, Nikita Ireland, Callum Thiess



quite small when all our gear was placed on the ground and hung on the walls. Then as the time to take the diamond came nearer, we flipped the mental switch and the serious side of our game kicked in. It became time to go out and do what we do best. The tournament was a blast and we all had a great time. As a group of student umpires, we would like to thank the Bundaberg Softball Assoc and Trosty's convening team for hosting the event. Trosty secured some sponsorship and Bundaberg Brewed Drinks came to the party and ensured the umpire's fridge was well stocked each day with ice cold ginger beer. It was good to come off the diamond after umpiring in 30 degree heat in layers of clothing and body armour, to be greeted with an air conditioned umpire's room and a fridge full of ice cold local product. A big thanks to Ron Yardley for putting in the hard yards, showing up early each day and making numerous changes to the roster so everyone had their chance to umpire. He is very protective towards us and often stepped up if coaches forgot we are still umpires learning the ropes. It has been a great experience. Jonathan Rosemeier.

Queensland Open Women’s Championship, 5th-7th September 2014 The 2014 Queensland Open Women’s Championship commenced on a beautiful day. The umpires with Tricia Sibraa as the TCU and a crew of 18 gathered as we always do with an air of anticipation for the first open championship of the season. Twelve teams were present at this year’s tournament with Papua New Guinea also sending their national women’s team. The round robin days where played in the spirit of the game and each umpire had the opportunity to practice all of their skills, both behind the plate and on the bases. With most games being a 3 man systems, there was ample time to hone skills in this area and this was welcomed by all umpires as generally there is little opportunity to do 3 man systems in home associations. There was a lot of emphasis on conducting pre-game briefings and then post-game debriefs which were beneficial to everyone. During the tournament, a number of special moments were also conducted, which included 4 local Redlands umpires being awarded their next level by Darren & Tricia Sibraa. There was also a special presentation to Tricia Sibraa being presented with the Softball Australia Umpire of the Year Award. As an addition to the crew, Moses Tolingling joined us from PNG. PNG are hosting the 2015 South Pacific games which includes Softball. As part of the development program in preparation for this tournament, the PNG men’s and women’s teams along with umpires and scores are participating in the Queensland Open Championships.



2014 Queensland Women’s Open Championship Umpire Crew Back Row: Alan Walsh, Brian MacPherson, Jamie Harries, Jodie Boustead, Darren Sibraa, Adam Reddaclif, Norelle Thomas,

Janelle Hicks, Neville Baggow, David Casey Front Row: Kylie Knight, Jo Voltz, Yvonne Kahler, Helen Strauss, Del Bellchambers, Moses Tolingling (PNG), Kiri Scott, Graeme

Love

It was a pleasure hosting Moses who stepped up to the challenge of umpiring at the tournament. He was keen to learn and actively participate in 3 man systems as there is very little opportunity to officiate with other umpires in PNG and most games are either officiated alone or with a volunteer on the bases. Moses is 59 years old and lives in the New Island Province in PNG. Moses umpired his first game of softball in 1976 and has seen many years and many changes in the game and umpires many PNG national tournaments. Coming to the Queensland open women’s was his first overseas experience and one that he says he will treasure. Moses is also an active Rugby League referee which he enjoys doing in the softball off-season. A special mention has to go to Fielder’s Choice who donated the protective equipment seen in this photo to Moses Tolingling. The umpire crew then chipped in to provide Moses a bag to keep his new equipment. After a hard fought tournament congratulations to the following crews who officiated the finals.



Queensland Cup Grand Final Crew Yvonne Kahler, Norelle Thomas, David Casey, Helen

Strauss

Thank you to our hosts at the Redlands Softball Association and a big thank you to all the umpires, management crew, and senior umpires assisting the blue crew – another successful state championship ends on a high note. Written by: Graeme Love

Open Cup Grand Final Crew Moses Tolingling, Jodie Boustead, Alan Walsh, Janelle

Hicks

Presidents Cup Grand Final Crew Neville Baggow, Graeme Love, Kylie Knight, Jamie

Harries

Presentation Darren Sibraa presenting Moses Tolingling with new

protective equipment kindly donated by Fielder’s Choice



Queensland U17 Girls Championship, 20th-22nd September 2014

2014 Queensland U17 Championship Umpire Crew

Back Row: Thomas Rivers, Adrian Ralph, Ross Winn, Jamie Harries, Dale Kaimoana, Norelle Thomas, Kylie Knoght, Steve Bickerton, Coady Ramsen, Ian Goodman

Front Row: Leila Higgins, Kiera Abell, Yvonne Kahler (UIC), Jessica Hayman, Leanne Oleary

3 Successful Level 2’s

At this carnival I was asked if I would write an article about my experiences as an Umpire/Candidate during this tournament. It wasn’t until I sat down with a cup of coffee (or five) and starting writing. I began to reflect on the journey I’ve undertaken and my achievements so far, considering it was back in November of last year I’d started my umpiring career as a redshirt umpire at Brisbane. It was during the red shirt program I had a dream to obtain my level 2 umpiring status within 12 months. At that time, it seemed a long way away. It is amazing the power that comes with a dream and it is what you do with this power, you can achieve whatever you set out to achieve. Another driving force in achieving my level 2 umpiring status comes down to one of my mentors from the red shirt program, Jamie Harries. It was one of Jamie’s goals during 2014; to see his 3 babies (as he like to call them) from last year redshirt program achieve their level 2 before end of this year. I’m proud to say I was the last one of his babies to make his dream come true. I was especially impressed to see and experience what the true spirit of softball is all about.

Steve Bickerton, Coady Ramsen, Leila Higgins



Presidents Cup Final Crew Kylie Knight, Leanne Oleary, Ian Goodman

State Championship Grand Final Crew Ross Winn, Dale Kaimoana, Adrian Ralph

It is more than just a sport that is played on the weekend, at State and International level. Softball is about the family it creates, being around like minded people. The competiveness that kicks in when “Play Ball” is called, then there comradeship in it’s purest form, when “Game” is called. Who could forget Wynnan and Toowoomba uniting together near third base and performing the nut bush city limits dance, during the ground preparation from the rain delay? Then there the willingness of strangers to make you not only feel welcome, but to accept you as part of their family. This came to light during the presentation ceremony when I was introduced for my acceptance of becoming a level 2 umpire, when unexpectedly, the entire Brisbane girls team (who I only met most of them 3 days ago) let out almighty cheer. I thank you for not only taking me in, but more importantly welcoming me as part of the family. Achieving level two umpiring status wasn’t about individually achieving this level (please do not get me wrong I did have to put the effort in). Achieving this status was due to the wonderful umpires I have around me. No doubt they all took pride in knowing they were apart of my achievement. There are too many to mention, they know who they. So where from here? It is onwards to achieving my level 3 umpiring status, which is the next step towards achieving my ultimate dream of becoming an ISF umpire. Upon saying that, I also look forward to watching my daughter starting her softball umpiring career (through the Brisbane Softball Umpire Association Red shirt program), this summer and one day seeing her achieving her level 2 status.

Thank you to our hosts at the Caboolture Softball Association and a big thank you to all the umpires, management crew, and senior umpires assisting the blue crew – another successful state championship ends on a high note. Written by: Steve Bickerton



Queensland’s New Level 5 Umpires Three Queensland Umpires received their Level 5 accreditation at the recent Under 17 Combined National Championship held at Hawker, ACT. Congratulations to Alan Walsh, Dale Kaimoana and Graeme Love. The journey for each of them started almost a year earlier, with the decision to make the step up and contribute further to the national umpiring program. The journey was not an easy task, with the first hurdle, passing the national exam with the required mark, then being approved as a candidate. The rest of the year was learning, polishing, some more learning, and then asking and receiving constant feedback from mentors and other senior national umpires on their performance. In order to ensure they were up to the required standard, they attended most of the State Championships, along with both the Logan and Pan Pacific Masters Games and various other tournaments. All of the hard work culminated in attending the national championships where they were continually assessed on their performance. It was a special time for all the candidates at this championship, with 5 in total presenting for the opportunity to receive their Level 5 accreditation. Having all the candidates successfully passing, it ensured that a bond between them all will remain for the rest of their umpiring careers. Once again, congratulations to all the new Level 5 Umpires – Alan Walsh, Dale Kaimoana, Graeme Love, Krissi Travers & Andrew Compton.

Level 5 Umpires with Queensland’s State Director of Umpiring Graeme Love, Alan Walsh, Darren Sibraa, Dale Kaimoana



Victoria Werribee Memorial Shield 2014 The Werribee Softball Association again hosted the Werribee Memorial Shield over the weekend of 21 – 22 September 2014. This competition has evolved over 16 years from being an internal association gig with a handful of teams to a tournament that this year attracted 30 teams from across the Melbourne region and even drawing in teams from outlying country areas such as the Mornington Peninsula. This year the tournament offered A, B, C women’s & A, B men’s grades with the opportunity for teams of all age groups, from the elite representative to masters teams, all preparing for an upcoming challenge such as National Championships. Over the two days there were seven diamonds operational in most timeslots throughout with 46 games played on Saturday and 36 on Sunday. Softball Victoria grasped the opportunity with U19 and U17 state teams participating. Also, umpires development and intermediate clinics were conducted across the weekend and opportunities provided to candidates to get plenty of on-diamond practice. Overall, 25 umpires of all levels, from green shirt to ISF, serviced the 82 games with a little assistance from a few clubbies who filled in occasionally. Grand Final crews were as follows:

Brett Tyler (2nd Base), Kevin Offer (1st Base), Dave Addlem (Plate) and Stuart Tyler (3rd Base)

A Women’s Final: Peter Samuels (1st Base), Lucy James (Plate) and Mark Williams (3rd Base)



This is an event that offers great opportunities for players and umpires to work together to improve their game in the lead up to whatever challenge is on the horizon for them. The Werribee Softball Association is excited with the interest shown in this event and is interested to hear from any groups - teams or umpires - that are interested in more information and may consider travelling to the event in the future. Werribee Softball Association contacts can be found on the web at www.werribee.softball.org.au. Written by: Trevor Murphy

B Men’s Final: Stan Tomie (Plate) and Troy Summers (Base)

B Men’s Plate Final: Kian Privitera (Base) and Aaron Wallace (Plate)

B Women’s Final: Angela Broadbent (Plate) and Naisie Tauiwi (Base)

C Women’s Final: Ryan Evans (Base) and Aaron Wendelborn (Plate)

Troy Summers (Base)


http://www.werribee.softball.org.au/


Victorian Umpire Training Clinics 2014 The Victorian Umpires Committee held the Level 2 Umpire Development Clinic and the Level 3/4 Umpire Intermediate Clinic on Saturday and Sunday 20-21 September at Werribee’s Memorial Shield Tournament. Of the eligible umpires, three were able to attend Development and three were able to attend Intermediate. Unfortunately quite a number of potential candidates were either involved in the tournament as a player or official or unavailable. Umpires who attended were:

Simon Ross Mark Williams

Angela Broadbent Lucy James

Naisie Tauiwi Peter Samuels

Given the difficult circumstances with conflicting activities the attendance was pleasing with the trainees coming from Casey, Werribee and Waverly. The course material was sent to umpires one week prior to the event so that they could pre-read the information. As the clinics were again run in conjunction with the Memorial Shield, it allowed the trainers, Richard Dodds (Level 5 Umpire and the State Training Coordinator) along with Jason Carter and Richard Barrow, to mix live games, classroom time and on-diamond simulations to deliver the clinic content. It also offered the opportunity to video the participants in live games, further enhancing the feedback opportunities. The response from attendees of both clinics was very positive, with the participants kept busy throughout the two days, with all of them leaving on the Saturday exhausted after such a full day. Following the theory component on each day, umpires were allocated to games to receive feedback. Every clinic attendee received feedback sheets over the weekend for games they were allocated to. All the participants put in an enormous effort including getting the opportunity for multiple bases and plates on live games over the weekend. This allowed feedback to be provided to the trainees which reinforced the information that they had learnt in the classroom. Overall, the clinics were a positive experience for the all the attendees, providing them with the necessary preparation for presenting as candidates for Level 2/3/4 at a forthcoming State Championship. A real bonus stemming from the training clinics was the fact that two of the Development Clinic participants, Naisie and Angela, were awarded a finals berth on the B Women’s Final and the three Intermediate Clinic participants, Mark, Lucy and Peter, crewed the A Women’s Final together. On behalf of the Victorian Umpires Committee, a big “Thank You” to Werribee for the facilities and the tournament to work within, enabling us to again run a great weekend of umpire training, it was very successful from our perspective. Well done to all the clinic participants, good luck and good calling for your assessments later in the season. Written by: Richard Dodds and Jason Carter



2014-15 Victorian Open State Championships, 29th-30th November, Geelong A crew of 23 umpires travelled to Victoria’s largest regional city, Geelong (affectionately known as Sleepy Hollow) for the 2014-15 Victorian Open State Championships held at Stead Park, home of the Geelong Softball Association. A warm weekend was forecast and the weather was as expected – hot then warm, windy then still, sunny then cloudy; thankfully there were no rain interruptions. Ably led by our Management Crew – Kevin Broomhall (TCU), Rhonda Scammell (DTCU) and Debbie Grove (TAO) – all umpires had fun on and off the diamond. The Geelong facilities for the umpires were the expansive soccer clubrooms and thus the travel distance to the diamonds was slightly extended, enabling pre-game discussions while walking. The crew comprised a broad collection of experience and youth, and as always, when a large contingent of umpires gathers in one place, the laughs and the learning never stop. Taking a Foul Ball directly into the face-mask led to one umpire receiving ambulance transport to Geelong Hospital. After observation and scans, the umpire was released with mild whiplash and some symptoms of concussion. This provides a timely reminder on two fronts: regularly check your safety gear to ensure it is up to the job it is designed for – protecting you; and review your ambulance coverage. In this case, thankfully there are no lasting effects and a good lesson for all umpires. With 60 games over the two days, all umpires did a great job providing service to the sport; thank you all. Two umpires successfully completed their assessment games for Level 4 accreditation over the weekend. Congratulations to – Mark Williams (Waverley) and Hayden Croft (Casey). Grand Final Allocations: Men – Debbie Grove (P), Trevor Murphy (U1), Leigh Evans (U2), Jason Carter (U3) Women Premier – Chris Trengove (P), Richard Dodds (U1), Dave Addlem (U3) Women Plate – Kevin Offer (P), Stuart Tyler (U1), Lucy James (U3) Women Trophy – Angela Broadbent (P), Talia McDonald (U1)

Successful candidate – Hayden Croft

Successful candidate – Mark Williams

Grand Final Crews



Victorian Umpire Candidate Success U/17 State Championships, Frankston, 13th-14th December 2014

Most of the Crew (L-R): Aaron Wallace, Bernard Vella, Alan van Breda, Richard Dodds, Troy Summers, Stan Tolmie, Rhonda Scammell, Angela Broadbent, Peter Samuels, Ian Wannon, Carolyn Di Paola, Kevin Offer, Hayden Croft, Mark

Williams, Jenny Joynson

The recent U/17 State Championships held at Frankston Association, a southerly beachside suburb of Melbourne, saw the successful achievement of Level 2 accreditation for a hard-working Victorian Umpire. It also saw our State Director napping on the job! The tournament held over the weekend of December 13 and 14 saw Boys and Girls teams from throughout the state vying to become State champions. The weekend saw our candidate umpire showing off the development of her skills in working towards Level 2 Accreditation. Congratulations go to Angela Broadbent from Werribee. The dedication and commitment to umpiring was evident from all the umpires on diamond. Some

The bulk of the crew (L-R): Jason Carter, Trevor Murphy, Mark Williams, Bernard Vella, Colin Watkeys, Alan van Breda, Stuart Tyler, Lucy James, Hayden Croft, Kevin Offer, Debbie Grove, Kevin Broomhall, Michael Morse, Angela Broadbent, Chris

Trengove, Richard Dodds, Roy Arscott. Stan Tolmie, Talia McDonald, Leigh Evans, Darren Spencer.



tough weather conditions were a timely reminder of the importance of physical preparation and hydration, both prior to and during a tournament. Some past BNOL articles on the topic of hydration were shared. Joining the successful candidate was an 18-strong umpire crew that included a management team lead by Tournament Chief Umpire (TCU) Stuart Tyler, Deputy TCU Rhonda Scammell and TAO Richard ‘Snoozy’ Barrow. From across Bass Strait, Launceston umpire Angela Post joined the crew, seeking further opportunities to advance her umpire development. Across the weekend games were played in great competitive spirit. Congratulations to the following umpires who were appointed to Grand Finals: Boy’s Cup – Alan van Breda (P), Troy Summers (U1), Kevin Offer (U3) Boy’s Plate – Bernard Vella (P), Peter Samuels (U1), Stan Tolmie (U3) Girl’s Cup – Hayden Croft (P), Aaron Wallace (U1), Mark Williams (U3) Girl’s Plate – Jenny Joynson (P), Carolyn Di Paolo (U1) Thank you to our hosts at Frankston and a big thank you to all the umpires, assessors, senior umpires assisting, and the management crew – another successful State Championship concludes.


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