Michigan Amateur Softball Association

Michigan ASA Umpires,

There are two major changes and a few minor changes for our 2016 softball season. The first major change is that I will be stepping down as the Michigan ASA State Umpire in Chief as of January 17, 2016. I have thoroughly enjoyed my 15 years at the helm and the 15 years prior to that as a state umpire staff member. But, nothing beats being an umpire on the field during my 47 years as a Michigan ASA umpire. I am honored to have served our Michigan ASA Umpire Program. I sincerely hope each of you can find the joy that I have in umpiring for Michigan ASA.

Bryan Smith is stepping into the position. He is the most capable, well trained, knowledgeable, and nationally recognized person for the job. Please give him the support you have given me over the years.

Bryan’s fellow state umpire staff members are Dave Schimpf, Dave Ritsema, and newcomer, Ross Martin. Ross brings to the staff a vast knowledge and experience as a District UIC, Tournament UIC, and clinician at many district and state clinics.

The second major change is that EVERY umpire MUST register individually. Last year, our Executive Director, Jerry Hanson, registered every umpire to make sure that future umpire registration would be a seamless transition. In 2016 all umpires must register using www.registerasa.com. If you were registered in 2015, you were issued a user name, password, and permanent  Member ID. If you do not remember that information, please contact our state office to retrieve it. Call 989-835-5821, write to 3316 Isabella Road in  Midland, MI 48640, or email [email protected]

Our three State Umpire Clinics are similar to previous years. A slight change will be that there will be 5 breakout sessions available to participants. This will give attendees more options to choose from to make their educational experience more fulfilling. We will still conduct sessions for new/newer umpires for those who are just joining our umpire avocation. Bring a friend as you carpool to join us for an educational experience. There is no cost to join us. But, there is a small fee for a served lunch.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your District or State Umpire Staff members.

Thank you,

Gary Evans                                                    

                                                                                                                                                                                                    

 

District Clinics continue to be an important part in the instructional process of the MASA Umpire Program. In 2016 the district UICs and their staff will conduct the district clinics and we encourage your attendance. Attend your MASA district clinic and take part in continuing to make the MASA umpire program the best it can be. Take part in your district clinic and get ready for the 2016 softball season equipped with all the latest umpire information available. Attend your district clinic in 2016.