Led by the WBSC Europe Director of Softball Umpires Nacho Pardo, the WBSC Europe Softball Blue Convention focused on advancing the skills and knowledge of umpires, with the goal of enhancing the sport of softball in Europe.
The convention was attended by members of the European softball umpiring community, as well as guest speaker José Chaparro, the WBSC Umpire of the Year in 2015. Chaparro provided valuable insights and expertise on umpiring techniques and trends, offering guidance on how to achieve excellence in the field.
The convention featured a range of workshops and interactive sessions, covering topics such as game management, rule interpretations, and communication with coaches and players. Attendees had the chance to practice their skills and receive feedback from experienced umpires, while also sharing their own experiences and insights.
The convention was divided into three days, each with a specific focus. Day one covered the basics of umpiring, including mechanics, signals, and positioning. Day two focused on advanced umpiring techniques, such as managing game situations, handling conflicts, and communicating effectively. Day three was dedicated to the evaluation and certification of umpires, allowing attendees to put their skills to the test and receive formal recognition of their expertise.
In addition to the workshops and sessions, the convention was also the platform to disclose the assignments for the 2023 season for the softball umpires.
Nacho Pardo spoke about the convention, expressing his enthusiasm for the growth of the European softball umpiring community and his commitment to continuing to improve the sport in Europe. He praised the convention as a platform for umpires to network, learn, and grow, and encouraged attendees to continue to strive for excellence in their work.
Overall, the WBSC Europe Softball Blue Convention was a successful event, offering valuable opportunities for umpires to improve their skills and collaborate with colleagues from across Europe.
The event was made possible thanks to the collaboration with the Spanish National Baseball and Softball Federation (Real Federación Espanola de Béisbol y Sófbol) and the Catalan Baseball and Softball Federation (Federacio Catalana Beisbol Softbol) helping in the organisation and logistics.