Jersey Umpire Makes History at the BSF National Co‑Ed Championships

The Jersey Softball Association is proud to congratulate James Marshall on becoming the first Jersey umpire ever to officiate at the BSF National Co‑Ed Championships, a landmark moment for softball on the island.

James has been a long‑standing member of the local softball community, progressing through BASU certification and gaining extensive experience at tournaments across the UK. His recent work as Umpire in Chief for Jersey and Crew Chief at Jersey Firstball showcased his ability to coordinate officials, manage high‑level games, and work alongside both local and visiting umpires.

That development was recognised earlier this year when BASU assessor Pete Saunders invited James to join the umpire crew for the BSF National Co‑Ed Championships, the top competition for league‑winning teams across the UK.

The tournament brought together 23 champion teams competing across Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum divisions, with James umpiring 11 games over two days, including five in the elite Gold and Platinum brackets. This placed him on the field with some of the strongest league teams in the country, including multiple international‑level players.

A particular highlight was being appointed to umpire the Silver Division Final between Cardiff Hurricanes and Swindon Spitfires, a testament to the confidence placed in his game management, positioning, and decision‑making at national standard.

James’ achievement reflects not only his dedication but also the continued investment the JSA makes in developing local officials. Through close collaboration with BASU, Jersey now has more certified umpires than ever before, strengthening the pathway for those who want to progress within the sport.

The JSA looks forward to supporting James as he continues to develop at national level, with ambitions to become a BASU instructor and assessor in the future. His journey demonstrates that any player in Jersey can pursue umpiring, travel to UK tournaments, join national crews, and contribute to the sport in a vital way.

This progress has been further supported by funding from the Jersey Community Foundation, with grants made possible through the Channel Islands Lottery. Their contribution has enabled more Jersey umpires to access BASU training and assessments and gain the qualifications needed to officiate at higher levels, creating opportunities for others to follow in James’ footsteps.

As BASU teaches from day one: “Without umpires we don’t have games, just practice.”