USA Softball News February Blues Acros...

February Blues Across America

Feb. 11, 2019, 3:59 p.m. (ET)

  Region 2 I Darryl Blan is a USA Softball of Piedmont Virginia member and Vice President of a district association in Northern Virginia (Champions Officials Association located in Loudoun County, Va.) and this photo captures Darryl doing what Darryl does best - umpire games at any level. He is involved in all aspects of the association from leading the academic training sessions to following up on customer questions that relate to umpires assigned to their games. Darryl is a consummate professional, striving to better not only his game but those of every umpire in the association.  Darryl has worked the USA Softball 16 Gold National Championship, as well as several other USA Softball Nationals. He is a NIF member, working on bettering not only himself but others in the process.
Region 2 I Jean Carter is an up and coming umpire for USA Softball of Piedmont Virginia. She represented her association in an outstanding manner in the most recent Nation Championship worked. She was assigned the plate for the 14U National Championship held in Chattanooga, Tenn. in 2017. She also worked the 18A Nationals in 2018 in Salem, Va. She is the Secretary-Treasurer for Champions Officials Association of Loudoun County, Va. and is involved in training from all aspects of scheduling to mechanic instruction on the diamond. Jean is in her eighth year as a USA Softball Umpire, a member of the NIF and Medals Program and is continuing to work toward her goal of becoming an Elite umpire.

Region 2 I  Marquis Ruffin (Murden) is a member of USA Softball of Piedmont Virginia. He is a third-year umpire and as such has been selected to work his second National Championship. He is a sponge when it comes to trying to improve himself. He listens and immediately tries to incorporate the lessons and objectives put in front of him. He desires to become better and works toward that by making every training session and meeting. He never turns down the opportunity to work a game, and works all ages from 10U to 18U in local Rec leagues. He worked the 10-12A Eastern National in 2017 and the 16-18B U Eastern Nationals in 2018, and continues to work to improve his game. He is a young up and coming umpire who will be an asset to any organization.
Region 2 I Dave Quinn was a coach in USA Softball of Virginia, and was recruited to the Umpire side. Talk about an upside, Dave jumped into the game and during all his training, immediately started asking questions that made the staff think and encouraged the transfer of information. Dave is looking for a challenge and works to better his game each time out. With his understanding of the coach’s perspective, he is one of the most prepared when it comes to game management. He understands coaches and now is building his resume as an umpire. This is his second year and he has been nominated to the 16B Eastern Nationals, where he was a shining star. Dave has everything it takes to be an Elite umpire - all he needs is the experience to get him there. He is one of the most advanced second-year umpires we have in our association.

Region 6 I Pictured here: USA Softball of Michigan's Bill Humphrey at the 2018 USA Softball Men's Major Fast Pitch National Championship in South Bend, Ind. watching softball.  He is a friend to the game and especially to all Umpires. Dave Chandler said it best, "Spending a day watching ball and a bonus quality time with Bill Humphrey...Priceless!!!   
Region 10 I USA Softball of Southern California would like to introduce Alex Ornelas, a LA County Fire Fighter. During this crazy time, he is not only a first responder, but also finds time to call ball during his off time. Alex is a genuinely great guy and his smile lights up the whole ball field!
  Region 10 I USA Softball of Southern California's Alburt Drake is a pleasure on and off the field. USA Softball of Southern California is fortunate that he has taken on a role as a mentor and is improving his game, other member umpires' games and local rec leagues games!
Region 10 I USA Softball of Southern California remembers Cesar Montes, who was a member umpire with USA Softball of SoCal for numerous years. He brought smiles and good times to many softball games. Rest in peace Cesar, you will be missed.