Jersey Softball Association Announces First Ever Qualified Local Umpires Thanks to Grant Funding

The Jersey Softball Association is delighted to announce that, thanks to a grant of £8,840, supported by the Jersey Community Foundation with funds from the Channel Islands Lottery, it has successfully delivered its first ever BASU umpire training and assessment programme.

As a result of this funding, 17 members of the local softball community were able to take part in an official BASU course, with 10 of those participants opting to go through the full assessment process and passing. This has made them the first locally qualified BASU umpires in Jersey’s history. This milestone means that, for the first time, Jersey-based umpires are now qualified to officiate not only in local leagues but also at tournaments or leagues across the UK. Already, at least one newly qualified umpire has taken up this opportunity, representing Jersey at a UK tournament.

Of the original grant, £1,300 was specifically allocated to cover the costs of running the official BASU umpire assessment days, ensuring that participants had the chance to qualify to international standards without prohibitive costs.

Robin Tadier, President of the Jersey Softball Association, said: “It’s amazing to finally be able to give our local umpires the opportunity to qualify. Having 10 newly certified BASU umpires is a huge step forward for the sport in Jersey, and it’s only possible thanks to the support of the Jersey Community Foundation. This will not only improve the quality of our local competitions but also give our umpires the chance to represent Jersey on the wider stage, which is incredibly exciting.”

This development represents a major first for softball in Jersey, strengthening the foundations of the sport and creating new opportunities for growth both locally and beyond.