Non-Profi t Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 44 Garrison, ND

Volume 33, Number 3 | NORTH DAKOTA STATE AMATEUR SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION | SPRING 2018

MARGE & CHUCK OBERG CURT KRAHLER GREG KAEDING DENNIS BENSE TOM HARTY HallHHaaalll ofof FameFFaame addsaaddds ssixix nneneweeww membersmemmbbbeeerrrss The Hall of Fame selection com- on Saturday evening, April 7 at active in recruiting new players. senden who played, managed and members. This year’s inductees will mittee, meeting during the Winter the Gladstone Hotel in downtown This year’s inductees include sponsored; and Chuck and Marge receive their Hall of Fame plaques meeting of the North Dakota Soft- Jamestown. This year’s group has Dennis Bense who played in both Oberg of Wahpeton who are now and Certifi cates at the annual Hall ball Association has voted in six experience at virtually every aspect Minot and Bismarck; Tom Harty, deceased but who sponsored one of of Fame banquet to be held in the new members to be inducted at of the game. All have played, some recently retired as the Deputy Um- the best slowpitch softball teams to Gladstone Hotel in Jamestown on the Hall of Fame banquet which is have managed, some have spon- pire in Chief in Jamestown; Greg ever play in North Dakota, Chuck’s Saturday evening, April 7, 2018. held at the same time and place as sored teams, some have administra- Kaeding of Fargo who serves as Off Sale. The addition of this year’s All previous members of the Hall the Spring meeting of the softball tive experience as League Reps or Secretary/Treasurer of the state class will bring total membership in of Fame in attendance will be rec- group. The banquet will be held Board Members and all have been softball group; Curt Krahler of Fes- the state softball Hall of Fame to 276 ognized at that time.

CHUCK AND MARGE an electronic scoreboard to the After being recruited by his including two state championships TOM HARTY OBERG softball complex . neighbor Jack Arends to assist and co-sponsoring a girl’s softball After playing softball for ten One of the most successful and CURT KRAHLER with the local softball organiza- team along with fellow Hall of years, Tom Harty of Jamestown popular softball teams ever to play Curt Krahler of Fessenden has tion, Greg Kaeding has become Famer Stan Johnson. decided he would try umpiring the in North Dakota was the Chuck’s played slow pitch softball for over an almost indispensable person, DENNIS BENSE game. He spent the next 33 years Off Sale team sponsored by Chuck 31 years and has played every posi- not just with the Fargo Slow Pitch Dennis Bense, now living in actively umpiring and served as and Marge Oberg. Their Class AA tion during his career. His career Softball Association but with the Bismarck, played a total of 23 Deputy Umpire in Chief for the team won four state titles and had a batting average is approximately state organization, USA Softball years in North Dakota for teams Jamestown area for 20 of those record of 935 wins and 212 losses .600. He has been a team manager North Dakota. in Minot and Bismarck. He retired years before his recent retirement. over a 16 year span. They won for 28 of those years as well as a After a 29 year career playing from the game in 2015 with an Tom has an impressive resume two Regional titles and became sponsor. He has played in over 31 slow pitch softball in the state, approximate batting average near as an umpire, having worked over the fi rst team from North Dakota state championship tournaments he holds several positions on the 600. He describes himself as a 100 state tournaments as well as 10 to win a Class AA Regional to 2 Regionals and 7 Nationals. His local level, including member base hitter with some power. He Regional tournaments and 4 Na- advance to the National Tourna- teams have won four state titles, of the Board of Directors, Fargo played in 33 state championship tionals. He has also volunteered as ment. The team was also named one Regional title and added three Slow Pitch, Treasurer for 30 years, tournaments with teams sponsored a working umpire for 15 McQuade the Non-School Team of the year runner-up titles at National events. member of the Fargo Park Board by Toads Ride and Shine of Minot, Tournaments. and captured four McQuade Tour- Curt is credited with keeping All City Softball Board and tourna- Hair Hospital and Stadium of Bis- Tom is respected for his knowl- nament titles. softball alive in Fessenden and ment manager for a number of state marck and Dustex of Mandan. His edge of the rules and his ability to Chuck and Marge followed surrounding area. For 20 years, he tournaments which hosted over teams played in two National Class communicate clearly at any level their team to every game and has built and rebuilt teams almost 4,000 teams. On the state level, A Coed tournaments, a National of the game. He is regarded as an were much more than monetary annually in his home town. Every Kaeding has served on the Board 35 and over tournament and fi ve excellent clinician and an umpire sponsors. Softball became their year many of his better players of Directors, been Secretary/ additional National tournaments. who takes pride in sharing his summertime passion including move on to college or to bigger Treasurer, is on the Classifi cation He also served as the manager of knowledge and experience with invitational tournaments virtually cities to fi nd employment. Curt Committee, the Hall of Fame Se- Toads Ride and Shine and was the new umpires. Players respect his every weekend. The team won often sponsored teams as well as lection Committee the Financial sponsor for Scheels. He is a mem- judgement and his ability to handle over 100 games in a single season, playing and managing. His teams Committee and was awarded a ber of the McQuade Tournament diffi cult situations with a minimum a nearly impossible feat in North always entered state tournaments Distinguished Service Award in Hall of Fame and played on the of attention. He was always pre- Dakota. It goes without saying that as well as invitationals including 2015. Toads Team which set McQuade pared for his assignments, properly Chuck and Marge put a lot of time the McQuade and normally did All of those administrative tournament records for the most dressed and equipped. He gained and money into their sponsorship very well against teams from big- accomplishments have over shad- runs scored in one inning when admission to the National Indicator of this highly successful team. ger towns and cities. owed his playing career which in- they plated 27 runs in the first Fraternity in 1994 and earned Elite They also helped the team with clude over 500 pitching victories, status in 2005 GREG KAEDING inning of a game during the Mc- equipment expenses and donated playing in 25 state tournaments, Quade tournament. Annual Spring Meeting April 7 Hall of Fame Banquet, Jamestown. Pitch Division, the JO Fast Pitch open at 4:30 with a buff et dinner to of the Hall of Fame Committee same date and place The Spring meeting of the NDU- Division and the Umpires. follow. All current Hall of Fame at 1226 4th Ave. E, West Fargo, SA Softball Association will begin The Hall of Fame banquet and members are invited and urged to ND 58078. Her telephone number State Softball Commissioner with coff ee and rolls at 8:30 a.m. induction ceremony for six new attend. Each will be individually is 701-799-0772 or fax 701-893- Dick Gulmon has announced the followed by a general meeting at members is also scheduled for that introduced prior to the induction 2638. Please get your tickets early date for the annual Spring Meet- 9:00 a.m. Separate meetings of evening with the banquet begin- ceremony for new members. Any- so that a head count for the banquet ing and Hall of Fame Banquet and the various divisions will follow ning at 5:30 so attendees at the one interested in attending is also may be obtained. induction ceremonies. Both events before the group meets again to state meeting can stay for the Hall invited. Tickets are $25 per person; will be held on Saturday, April 7 at hear reports from the Men’s Slow of Fame ceremony and still get Tickets may be obtained by con- inductees for this year will get 2 the Gladstone Hotel in downtown Pitch Division, the Women’s Slow home that evening. A cash bar will tacting Amy Anderson, Secretary free tickets. 2 – Softball News Spring 2018 President’s Report

Wow, it is 19 below this morning tional Tournaments in 2018. Fargo Masters rosters must be submitted series for you. So please look into as I write this letter. It does not will host the Northern D on Aug. by July 1st. This is very important participating. The winning teams feel like softball weather but is is 31-Sept. 2nd. Mandan will be the because of the National Masters will receive some great prizes at the not that far away. I have already home of the Mens Masters 35, tournament is again in North Da- end of the year. received my High School fast 45 and the Women’s 35 Masters kota this year- Mandan. A make-up I would like to congratulate pitch schedule which starts early on Aug. 24-26. The Mens E/Rec roster is allowed for both the State the 6 newest members to the April. So it is time to time to start Northern National will be held in and National tournaments but we USA Softball Hall of Fame. Curt getting your teams together. This Liberty, MO this year on Aug. 24- must have them in hand by July 1st. Krahler from Fessenden, Tom is a reminder that the 2018 move- 26. The Mens C National this year USA Softball of North Dakota Harty from Jamestown, Chuck and ups are printed in this paper. If will be held in Prairie Island, MN has a new Adult liability team in- Marge Oberg from Wahpeton, Greg you are on that list and have any on Aug.31-Sept. 3rd. surance available for 2018. This is Kaeding from Fargo, and Dennis questions on it please contact me. Some other important dates to a very good insurance policy and Bense from Bismarck. This is a Jack Lukes Remember that this list comes from remember will be the Spring meet- it will be explained more in this great honor and I welcome these the top 10%of each State and Na- ing and the Hall of Fame Banquet paper. I would highly recommend 6 people. tional Tournament and a few of the on April 7th. The Final Classifi ca- that you look into this policy. I hope to see you around the top fi nishers at the McQuade each tion meeting will be July 6th. The The Tournament Series is going diamonds this Summer. And if you year. On the McQuade move-ups deadline for League Registrations very well. We will be again run- ever have any question please do the teams from 2017 can play their will be June 4th. Roster deadline ning it this year with the same spon- not hesitate to call or email me... original class until the start of the - at the State Offi ce is June 11th. sor as last year. - Monsta will again 2018 season, then the move-ups After June 11th there is a $25 late will be handling the prize package. Jack Lukes- take place. fee. The fi nal roster change date If your team likes to compete in North Dakota will host 2 Na- is June 19th. Also a reminder that a lot of tournaments this is the

From the Sidelines

As I write this, the wind chill is I do them in rough draft, put them other tournament information will Gladstone Hotel in downtown minus 22 degrees this morning. It aside for another day or two before be published in the Summer issue Jamestown starting at 9:00 a.m. has been quite a stretch of bitterly I fi nalize them. of this paper. The Hall of Fame banquet will cold weather so I thought maybe if It should be a busy softball Our JO Fast Pitch Girls program be held that evening also at the I wrote something about softball season in North Dakota this year continues to grow. Their state Gladstone. That will start at 5:30 it might warm me up. I had hip with Mandan hosting the National tournament this coming season will p.m. so attendees can still get home replacement surgery the end of Tournaments for Men’s Masters be held in Fargo at the new North fairly early. Everyone is invited to November, 2017 and my recovery 35 and 45 along with the Women’s Softball Complex. There has been attend and current members of the and rehab have gone very well. I’m Masters 35. We’re looking for good consistent growth in the program Hall of Fame will be individually hoping that by Spring I can play a turnouts for each of these tourna- with more teams and cities involved introduced. Six new members will little golf and even umpire a few ments so teams, get organized to in the youth fast pitch game. I keep be inducted at the banquet. softball games. Since I was stuck participate in a National tourna- hoping that the fast pitch game will I hope to see many of you at the Walt Stack in the house during my recovery ment. Fargo will also be hosting a come back for adults as well but so Hall of Fame banquet and at the from surgery and now with the cold national event when they welcome far, no luck. diamonds during the Season. Good weather, I got our income taxes the Men’s Class D Northern nation- The Spring meeting of the state luck to all teams and let’s have an- done and ready to mail. That kept al tournament at their new North association will be held this year other great season of softball. me busy for a couple of days since Softball Complex. The dates and on Saturday, April 7, 2018 at the

J.O. Fastpitch Update

High school Softball starts prac- cut down on the number days the tryouts. year we 64 teams compete in the tice next month on March 19th. It tournaments would last. Due to the unfortunate incidents state tournament in Bismarck. looks like there will be 19 “Class A Some interesting items of at- that happened in women’s gymnas- Just to compare with our neigh- teams” and 29 “Division B” teams. tention that may face JO softball tics, USA Softball has now added a boring state, South Dakota has ap- As previously reported from last comes in from the College level. “Safe Sport video” that will now be proximately 135 teams, Minnesota fall’s column, Bishop Ryan will There is a proposal to limit recruit- included for all coaches, and bench over 635 teams, and Montana had move down to the Class B ranks ing to juniors in high school. That personal. This is an additional item, 91 teams competing in their state this spring. Other new programs vote is coming in April. What the going forward, that will need to tournaments for 2017. Those are starting this year are Solen/Can- fallout may be is can younger kids be done in order for a background all 3 day tournaments. non Ball, Harvey/Wells county and be able to visit campus’ or even at- check, and the ACE program, that Here are USA tournaments you Campbell/Tintah Lidgerwood. Next tend a college camp clinics, if they needs to be completed by those who can attend for the upcoming 2018 Spring, Watford City will move to are younger than a junior. It sounds are willing to coach. As of now it season. Brian Neuhardt WDA, bring the total Class A teams like there was a lot of support for looks like this will be needed to be back to 20. That is a total of 48 that to pass. done a 2 year cycle. Class A Tournament sites total teams competing this Spring. The 12U All American games The 2018 state tournament will Class B tournament Sites The state Class A tournament will were a huge hit with the National be held on Fargo Starting on Friday New Region 8 Class C be held in Fargo and the Class B in Offi ce last summer. There are sev- July 13th thru Sunday 15th. Those 18U Novi , MI 7/26-7/29 Jamestown. Those dates are May eral U Tube video’s on the event. I games will be held at Fargo’s North 18U Springfi eld , MO 7/15-7/29 31st thru June 2nd. would highly recommend that those fi eld. WE are excited to have the 18U NONE Last weekend, I was fortunate be watched. They tell a great story state return to Fargo starting this 16U Bloomington, IN 7/25-7/29 enough to attend the USA Softball and what it means to be a part of year. In addition, it was voted that 16U North Mankato, MN 8/2-8/5 JO commissioners meeting in those games. The North Dakota Minot will host the 2019 state 16U NONE Oklahoma City. There were ap- tryouts for the 12u All American tournament. It has been a while 14 U Rochester, MN 8/2-8/5 proximately 70 JO commissioners games will be held on Sunday, since Faargo has hosted the state 14U Decatur, IL 7/23-7/29 and 23 State commissioners attend- April 29th, in Bismarck starting at tournament and the fi rst time ever 14 U Yankton, SD 7/23-7/29 ing the meeting. Some of the new 1:00 PM. North Dakota will get to that Minot has hosted the state tour- 12U Wausau, WI 7/25 -7/29 items coming up will be splitting send 5 players to Oklahoma City nament. It has been one of our goals 12U Yankton, SD 7/23-7/29 some of the National tournaments and play minimum of 4 games at to rotate the JO state tournament 12U Yankton, SD 7/23-7/29 up into East/West Tournament. The Hall of Fame complex. Those are between Bismarck, Grand Forks, 10U Yankton, SD 7/23-7/29 thinking here would be to eliminate scheduled for June 29th to July Minot and Fargo on a permanent 10U Wausau, WI 7/25-7/29 travel for the coast teams and to 1st. Please get the word out for the rotation between those cities. Last 10U Yankton, SD 7/23-7/29 Softball News Spring 2018 – 3 Ump Chat

Who’s ready for some softball? I highly recommend that pitch- really increase participation in these ND to work national tournaments Once again, the upcoming season ers, players, and managers take the tournaments. These national tour- this summer. Besides the North comes with minimal new rule time to attend the portion of the naments are a great opportunity for Dakota Nationals, we have already changes which are great for both fi eld clinic at the beginning where our Men’s and Women’s Masters secured some great opportunities umpires and players. Elsewhere we cover the pitching height to get teams so start thinking about getting this summer for some of our um- in this issue is a complete listing a true feel of where the ten foot arc your team put together. This is also pires to work a national tournament of the rule changes for 2018. We limit really is. Last year we had a going to be an excellent opportunity outside the state. Elliott Gerhardt will go over the entire list of rule lot of players attend our fi eld clin- for umpires as this is an Elite quali- has been chosen to work the Girls changes at all of the umpire rules ics and a lot of eyes were opened fi er tournament, one of only a few in 16U Gold Fastpitch Tournament in clinics and all of the manager’s at our fi eld clinics by players and ASA that allows umpires to achieve Plano, TX. Ben Birkemeyer from rules clinics throughout the state. If umpires alike when we stretch the Elite status. Bismarck has been assigned to um- you have any questions concerning string and start throwing pitches. Fargo is also hosting a national pire the Girl’s 18U Gold Fastpitch any of the rule changes, be sure and So, please consider attending a fi eld tournament this summer. Fargo will Tournament also in Plano, TX. Mike Wolf • Umpire in Chief let me know. clinic and take a look at the pitching host the Men’s D National Tourna- Tom Hamkens from Bismarck has We will be holding several class- arc. There is a complete listing of ment August 31 -September 2. This been assigned to work the Men’s A other umpire exchanges for national room rules clinics for managers and classroom clinics and fi eld clinics too, is a great opportunity for North National Tournament in Ridgeland, tournaments outside our region. umpires. We will also be holding listed elsewhere in this issue. Dakota teams to participate in a Mississippi and Naomi Erdahl All of these opportunities to work several field clinics for umpires We have several opportunities national tournament. Mandan and from Bismarck has been assigned outside our state are great opportu- throughout the state that everyone is for players and umpires to be a part Fargo both do a great job hosting to umpire the ASA/USA JO Cup nities for our umpires to showcase invited to attend. At past fi eld clin- of national tournaments in North their tournaments and you won’t Fastpitch Tournament. These are their skills. ics we have stretched a string ten Dakota this summer. Mandan will be disappointed by participating some excellent tournament assign- I would like to recognize and feet high and another string six feet be hosting the Men’s Masters 35 & in any of the tournaments. You ments for some of our ND umpires. congratulate Wade Blumhagen high between the pitcher’s mound Over, 45 & Over Men’s and 35& might want to start thinking about We will also be receiving umpire from Bismarck and Chris Cole- and home plate to use as a training Over Women’s National Tourna- entering your team or putting a assignments for the Women’s JO man from Fargo who have been tool for umpires to see where the ten ment August 24-26, 2018. There team together to participate in this National Tournament in Water- foot limit is and where the six foot will be a competitive division great event. town, SD and some of the Girls JO minimum is. This is a great training and a recreational division in the We will also have a lot of great Fastpitch nationals on our region. Ump Chat tool for both umpires and players. men’s tournaments which should opportunities for umpires from I am also working on a couple of continued on page 4 Commissioner’s Column

Welcome again to another soft- strong. We had 630 teams play- ships in the country. An award like MSP and WSP Task Force met ball season in North Dakota. When ing in State Tournaments this past this does not just happen, it takes this past fall to discuss the 2017 it is time to write this column year including a 64 Team JO State hard work by the local tourna- and plans for the 2018 season. We regarding the upcoming softball Tournament. We are grateful that ment committee and a tremendous also had our winter meeting in season, we know that we are at the Gary Tharaldson continues to volunteer base. Both events had January of the Advisory/Execu- tail end of winter and softball is sponsor and cover the cost of all of great umpire staff s and provided a tive Board and League Reps from around the corner. our trophies, medals and awards quality event for the teams, players around to the State. We discussed In 2017 to become more aligned package for State Tournaments. and fans. My congratulations to rule changes, code changes and with the USA Olympic Commit- Tharaldson’s contribution to our Mandan and Fargo and thanks for approved State Tournament sites tee and other National Governing program is signifi cant, and allows the great work. and dates. We also discussed the Body’s, we became USA Softball us to keep our entry fees aff ord- Also this past year, USA Softball possibility of a Fall State Tourna- of North Dakota. The USA Soft- able for all teams and assists in partnering with the Bismarck Parks ment in MSP which would also ball name and branding change is maximizing participation. Please and Rec to host the Special Olym- include an inaugural 5x5x5 State Dick Gulmon important for our future, and our thank Gary whenever you have an pics North America Softball Cham- Tournament. We appointed a com- alignment with the US Olympic opportunity. pionship. The event was sponsored mittee to come back to the Spring Committee is signifi cant. I attended the USA Softball Na- by Moose International. We extend Meeting with recommendations for 8U, 10UA, 12UB, 10UC, 12UC, We had a good year in 2017 for tional Council meeting last fall in our thanks to Andy Dooley, Chair- both. We appointed Mike Wolf to 14UC in Yankton S.D. July 23-28. USA Softball of North Dakota. Greensboro North Carolina as did man of the USA Softball Special Assistant Commissioner/UIC and GFP 12UA, 10UB in Wausau, Wisc Our Adult registrations were down Jack Jones, RC Courtright, Nick Programs committee, Bismarck appointed Darin Krueger to the July 25-29. GFP 14UA, and 16UB slightly, but our JO program con- Gulmon and Mike Wolf. Mandan Parks & Rec, Moose Lodges in Executive Board. We extend our in Rochester, Mn. August 2-5. MSP tinues to grow. 2017 was a very was successful in landing the 2019 North and South Dakota, Special thanks to Sue Lachenmeier for her D Northern Championship in Fargo successful year with the USA Soft- MSP Masters (35), (45), and WSP Olympics of North Dakota, Bis- years of service to USA Softball 8/31-9/2. MSP Masters 35, 45 and ball/Monsta Tournament Series in (35). Mandan also added the WSP marck/Mandan CVB, the Umpire North Dakota and wish her the best WSP 35 in Mandan, N.D. 8/24- MSP. The Monsta Series provides Masters 35 in 2018 as well. Also staff , and the hundreds of volunteers in retirement. 26. USA MSP Championship B a prize package of $15,000 worth at the Council meeting Mandan from the Bismarck, Mandan area There are some great opportuni- in Prairie Island, Mn 8/24-26, and of equipment. Overall participa- and Fargo received the prestigious for all each of you did to make this ties to participate in USA Softball Commissioner tion in Invitational Tournaments James Ferrell Award for hosting the such a great event for the athletes, National Championships in the and State Tournaments was also highest rated National Champion- teams and fans. Northern Region in 2018. GFP continued on page 7 Women’s Softball Commissioner

WOMEN’S MASTERS 35 NA- more teams to participate. Players an accurate roster falls upon: #1) the right track to get some more TIONAL TOURNAMENT COM- are worried that they will get hurt THE PLAYER. Make sure your changes implemented. Again, I ING TO MANDAN – August in the Masters State and then they name, address and birth month and need everyone’s help and ideas. If 24-26, 2018. This is a great op- would be unable to play in the state year are correct. Sign your OWN you think we could be doing some- portunity for anyone wanting to tournament with their regular team. NAME. List ALL other women’s thing better, let us know. Provide us put together a team(s) to represent softball teams that you play for on with an idea or two to help us move North Dakota. The tournament WOMEN’S CLASSIFICATION the back of your roster. #2) YOUR forward with changes, so together, is run a little diff erently than our AND DATABASE UPDATE: Last TEAM MANAGER. Team manag- we can make women’s softball in state masters tourney here in North year, we had a women’s database ers need to know all players who North Dakota the best that it can Dakota. Our state masters has an available to us at the classifi cation are on other rosters, who the team be. [email protected]. over 30 format, but nationals is over meeting for the fi rst time ever. All is, what that team’s classifi cation is, 35. There is only one division of women were entered in the database and all of this information is to be play at nationals. There will be a and the classifi cation committee included on the back of your ros- Amy Anderson tournament website coming soon could reference all players on more ters. Have your players sign their with offi cial rules and registration than one roster. Because of this, own names. #3) LEAGUE REPS. information. Until then, please the classifi cation committee had to Get to know your players. ALL contact Jack Jones, the tournament make MANY last minute changes players need to be on a roster to play Softball News director if you have any questions. to rosters that were classifi ed incor- in your leagues. No random added Offi cial Publication of the North Dakota ([email protected]). rectly because some dual-rostered players for league tournaments, etc. Amateur Softball Association players had not communicated that TASK FORCE – I want to say Editor—Walt Stack NORTH DAKOTA STATE they were on more than one roster. thank you to the women’s task force WOMEN’S MASTERS 30 and A dual-rostered player can aff ect the for doing research and providing Advertising Director—Softball News over moved to August 18-19 in Bis- classifi cation of a team depending ideas to start making some changes Box 309, Garrison, ND 58540 marck. We have decided to move on the classifi cation of their other in ND women’s softball. Not all Subscription and similar material should be addressed to the masters state tourney to AFTER team. of our ideas got approved by the Softball News, Box 309, Garrison, N.D. 58540. the other state tourneys to try to get The responsibility of turning in executive council, but we’re on Advertising rates upon request. For advertising rates, write: BHG, Inc., P.O. Box 309, Garrison, ND 58540 or telephone (701) 463-2201. 4 – Softball News Spring 2018 The Last Call

Stanley T. Johnson Stanley T. Johnson, 83, Moor- head, MN passed away Saturday, January 13, 2018 at Eventide Nurs- ing Home, Fargo. Stan "The Man" was born July 16, 1934 in Oklee, Minnesota to Arvid and Anna (Gunstenson) Johnson. He attended school at the Moorhead Campus School, gradu- ating in 1952. He worked various construction jobs before enlisting in the U.S. Army, serving in 82nd Airborne as a paratrooper. He made 42 jumps in his military career, be- ing honorably discharged in 1957. He moved to Minneapolis, MN where he worked at NAPA Au- toparts and met Ruthie Thompson. complishments. He was loved and They were married on April 26, respected and will be dearly missed. 1958 in Minneapolis, MN. They Stan Johnson began his involve- Pictured left to right: Board of Park Commissioner President Wayne Munson, BPRD Operations Direc- made their home in the Minneapo- ment with softball while serving as tor Dave Mayer, Commissioner Julie Jeske, BPRD Community Relations Manager Paula Redmann, lis/St. Louis Park area before mov- a paratrooper at Fort Bragg, North BPRD Executive Director Randy Bina, Commissioner Jason Starck, Commissioner Brian Beattie, ing to Moorhead, MN in 1972. He Carolina in the 1950’s. He was BPRD Recreation Manager RaNae Jochim and BPRD Facilities and Program Director Kevin Klipfel. worked for Harts parts in Moorhead a catcher and went from there to before working for the Fargo Park umpiring beginning in 1954. After District and the Fargo Recreation leaving the service, Stan ended up department and was the coordinator in Minneapolis where he played and Bismarck Parks and Recreation for the softball umpires in Fargo for umpired softball from 1957 until over 20 years. 1972 when he moved to Moorhead. He was involved with softball He became active in the Fargo District Wins Gold Medal Award throughout his life, working as an Slow Pitch league and umpired over Bismarck Parks and Recreation agency recognition. agencies: Alpharetta Recreation and umpire where he was estimated to 20 years beginning in 1973. In ad- District (BPRD) has been honored “Bismarck is already known as an Parks Department, Alpharetta, GA; have called over 1 million balls dition to his active umpiring, Stan with the highest and most presti- amazing and supportive community. Lombard Park District, Lombard, and strikes in his career. He was also served as a mentor for begin- gious award attainable by a park and This prestigious honor recognizes IL and City of Wheat Ridge Parks inducted into the North Dakota ning umpires, an umpire scheduler recreation agency; the 2017 Gold the investments we are making in and Recreation Department, Wheat Softball Hall of Fame in 1999. He and coordinator and member of the Medal Award for Excellence in Park our programs, parks and facilities. Ridge, CO. was extremely proud of the honor Fargo Slow Pitch Board, a position and Recreation Management. We are very honored to be a two- BPRD Board of Park Commis- he received when inducted. He was he held for 15 years. He retired as BPRD was named one of the four time recipient of this Gold Medal sioners President Wayne Munson always a happy person and was a an active umpire in 1993 but con- Finalists for the award earlier this Award. This places BPRD in a very said, “To be selected as one of the great example not only for ballplay- tinued to assist the Fargo board as a year. The American Academy for rare category of park agencies, and top park and recreation agencies in ers but people in general and will tournament manager and of course Park and Recreation Administration we accept this award on behalf the country is a proud and historic be remembered as a "bright spot in a mentor for umpires and occasion- (AARPA), in partnership with the of the citizens of Bismarck,” said moment. This award recognizes the room." ally grabbed his ball/strike indicator National Recreation and Park As- BPRD Executive Director Randy our past as well as the important He loved spending time with his and umpired a game or two when sociation (NRPA) and Musco Light- Bina. work we do every day with eyes family, especially his grandchildren the regularly scheduled umpire ing, are sponsors of this award. The BPRD is a past recipient of the on a promising future. We’re both and was proud of all of their ac- didn’t show or was late. announcement was made during award, receiving the NRPA Gold thrilled and humbled to be recog- the Opening Session of the NRPA Medal Award in 1993, and being a nized for these eff orts.” Annual Congress and Exhibition fi nalist in 1991, 1992, 1993, 1999, After submitting a lengthy ap- on Tuesday, September 26, 2017 in 2016 and 2017. plication, BPRD was selected as New Orleans, LA. Applications are separated into a Finalist. A panel of fi ve park and The Gold Medal Awards program seven classes, with five classes recreation professionals reviews honors communities throughout the based on population, one class and judges the application materials U.S. that demonstrate excellence in for armed forces recreation and as well as a BPRD video and the DICKINSON parks and recreation through long- one class for state park systems in BPRD website. Judges are chosen Parks & Recreation 2015 range planning, resource manage- odd numbered years. BPRD is the for their considerable experience 2018 ment, volunteerism, environmental winner in the Class IV (population and knowledge in parks and recre- stewardship, program development, 30,001-75,000) category and com- ation on both the local and national professional development and peted for the honor with three other levels. Softball Ump Chat TournamentsGet your registration in earlyents continued from page 3 to guarantee your spot approved for “Elite Umpire” status set up a committee to do all of the of my Deputy UIC’s for the great from the USA Softball national planning. The national school will job they do for USA Softball of Miller Lite offi ce. Elite umpire status is the be held in Bismarck probably in late ND They all bring a vast amount Softball Tournament highest recognition an umpire can April or early May of 2019. of knowledge and experience and achieve in USA Softball. If you are a valuable asset to our umpire Sat. & Sun., July 14 & 15, 2018 see any of these umpires around It is also time for my annual plea program in ND. Our DUIC’s are: 'LYLVLRQV0HQ :RPHQ the fi elds this summer, be sure and to recruit more umpires. Leagues Lyle Rader—Wahpeton, Tom Law- )HH0HQ:RPHQ congratulate him for all their hard around the state are growing, and son—Minot, Elliott Gerhardt—Bis- JDPHJXDUDQWHH work and dedication in reaching while some umpires retire, some marck, Pat “Rock” Healey— Grand 'HDGOLQH-XO\ Elite status! North Dakota’s um- just don’t come back, so we are Forks, Mike Nider—Bismarck, pire program is fortunate to have always in need of new umpires. Ev- Randy Olson—West Fargo, Al Zie- Last Chance several umpires who have achieved ery city in North Dakota will need mann—Bismarck, Marchel Krieg- Elite status. It is a great testament more umpires. Players make good er—Jamestown, Terry O’Clair— Softball Tournament to our umpire program. Blumhagen umpires because they have a keen Bismarck, and Koby Pennick and Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018 and Coleman join the following knowledge of the rules and a feel Chris Coleman in Fargo. 'LYLVLRQV0HQ :RPHQ ND Elite umpires: Mark Sondag, for the game. Plus, where else can I enjoy visiting with a lot of you )HH JDPHJXDUDQWHH Mike Nider, Elliott Gerhardt, Al- you fi nd a part-time job—outdoors, throughout the state during the 'HDGOLQH$XJXVW' lan Ziemann, Walt Stack, Naomi where you can make around about year on various issues. I appreciate Erdahl, Terry O’Clair, and Michael twenty fi ve dollars an hour? each and every question or concern Wolf all from Bismarck, Tom Harty If you have any interest at all to I receive. As always, I am here and Marchel Krieger from James- umpire, please contact me and I can to help in any way that I can to All teams must be sanctioned through town, Lyle Rader and Paul Beech put you in touch with someone from make softball more enjoyable for USA Softball of North Dakota from Wahpeton, Koby Pennick your area of the state. Or, check out players, umpires, and fans. If you from Fargo, and Gerald Payne, the listing of the fi eld and classroom have any questions, comments, Entry fees must accompany the Grand Forks. Tom Hamkens from clinics in this issue and you can or concerns, please let me know. entry registration forms. Bismarck achieved Umpire Fra- just show up and register. If you Drop me an email, text, or give me For times check tournament brackets ternity Status for having worked in have any questions or concerns a call and please know that I will listed on web: dickinsonparks.org Entry forms are available three national tournaments. about umpiring, please contact me be happy to assist you in any way *All tournaments will be held at Gress on the DPR website: Some exciting news for our and I’d be happy to visit with you. that I can! You can reach me at Softball Complex (455 8th Ave SW) dickinsonparks.org umpiring program in North Da- Umpiring just one night a week can [email protected] and my kota and that is North Dakota has make a huge diff erence in helping cell 701-400-2100. been selected by the USA Softball out your local league. (701) 456-2074 National Offi ce to host a national I would like to recognize our Have an enjoyable, fun, and safe )DLUZD\6WUHHW'LFNLQVRQ1' umpire school next spring. I will Deputy UIC’s are throughout the summer! 'LFNLQVRQ6RIWEDOO/HDJXH&RQWDFW5\DQ1HOVRQ coordinate this eff ort and we will state and I would also like thank all Softball News Spring 2018 – 5 Mandan to Host Nationals United States named No. 1 in WBSC Men’s Masters 35 & 45 • Women’s Masters 35 Women’s World Softball Ranking Dates: August 24-26 OKLAHOMA CITY – There’s a (Bubba Nickles:30), Individual all ages the opportunity to play the Entry fee: $450; $400 if paid by August 3 new No. 1 ranked team in the world Highest Batting Average (Bubba game they love at a variety of levels Entry deadline: Thursday, August 16 as the United States has landed atop Nickles: .690) and Team Home by offering recreational, league, the world as the United States has Runs (15). tournaments and competitive play Tournament draw: Monday, August 20 landed atop the World Baseball For Women’s World Champion- for fast pitch, slow pitch and modi- Format: Softball Confederation (WBSC) ship play, the Red, White and Blue fi ed pitch. USA Softball annually 9 teams or less - Pool play (2 games), teams seeded from pool play Women’s and Junior Women’s reclaimed the Gold at the 2016 conducts thousands of tournaments into double elimination championship bracket. divisions, Team USA holds the WBSC Women’s World Champi- throughout the country including 10 teams or more - double elimination with 3 games guarantee. position for the fi rst time since the onship to earn the program’s 10th over 100 National Championships. rankings were introduced in 2015. overall World Championship title. The USA Softball umpire program Women’s Masters 35 - one division only Team USA takes the No. 1 spot After going a perfect 9-0, Amanda is among the nation’s largest and Men’s Masters 45 - one division only; 4 home runs. from Japan, who have finished Chidester (Allen Park, Mich.) are widely known as the best runner-up to the U.S. since the 2015 also entered into the record books trained umpires in the game. Men’s Masters 35 - Three divisions - USA Softball WBSC Junion Women’s World herself in WBSC Women’s World About the World Baseball Open Division - Open roster, no classifi cation restrictions; 6 home runs. Championship. Championship history in two cat- Softball Confederation Competitive Division - rosters limited to not more than 2 Class A or “We couldn’t be more thrilled to egories: Most Runs Batted In (19) Headquartered in Lausanne, B players; 4 home runs. have the United States ranked No. and Most Home Runs (7). Switzerland – the Olympic Capi- 1 in the WBSC Women’s Softball The Web-based version and tal – the World Baseball Softball Recreational Division - rosters limited to not more than 2 class D play/ Rankings,” said USA Softball methodology of the WBSC Softball no players above Class D; 2 home runs. Confederation (WBSC) is the world Executive Director, Craig Cress. World Rankings can be fournd at governing body for baseball and Teams will be allowed to form new rosters for this tournament. Rosters “A big congratulations goes out to www.wbsc.org/rankings. softball. WBSC has 202 Naitonal are due by August 16. Players will be allowed to play in both the Masters the athletes, coaches and staff of About USA Softball Federation and Association Mem- 35 & 45, if age qualifi ed. Players cannot play in more than one division our Women’s and Junior Women’s USA Softball is a 501(c)(3) bers in 143 countries and territories of Masters 35. All teams MUST be registered with USA Softball. National Team Programs who have not-for profi t organization head- across Asia, Africa, Americas, Eu- put in countless hours to help keep quartered in Oklahoma City, Okla., rope and Oceania, which represent the U.S. atop the podium. The team and is designated as the National a united baseball/softball sports will have the opportunity to defend Governing Body (NGB) of Softball movement that encompasses over the No. 1 spot this August in Chiba, in the United States and a member 65 million athletes and attracts USA Softball of North Dakota where we will look to defend our of the United States Olympic Com- approximately 150 million fans to 2018 State Tournament Schedule & Entry Fee Gold Medal fi nish from 2016.” mittee. One of the nation’s largest stadiums worldwide annually. At the Junior Women’s Cham- sports organizations, USA Softball The WBSC governs all inter- M’ S P D L pionship level, the United States sanctions competition is every national competitions involving claimed the Gold at the 2015 and Class C August 4-5, 2018 Bismarck state through a network of 70 local offi cial National Teams. The WBSC 2017 WBSC Junior Women’s Class D August 4-5, 2018 Bismarck associations and has grown from oversees the Softball World Cham- World Championships where the Rec 1 August, 11-12, 2018 Mandan a few hundred teams in the early pionships (Men, Women, U-19 team shattered several WBSC Rec 2 East August, 4-5, 2018 Wahpeton days to over 150,000 teams today, Men, and U-19 Women), Pre- Junior Women’s World Champi- Rec 2 West August 4-5, 2018 Minot representing a membership of more mier12, World Baseball Classic, onship records: Individual Most Rec 3 East August 11-12, 2018 Fargo than 2 million. USA Softball is and Baseball Wold Cups (U-12, Home Runs (Bubba Nickles: 6), Rec 3 West August 11-12, 2018 Bismarck dedicated to providing people of U-15, U-18, U-23 and Women’s). Individual Most Run Batted in Rec 4 East August 18-19, 2018 Grand Forks Rec 4 West August 18-19, 2018 Dickinson Masters 35 July 28-29, 2018 Mandan Masters 40 August 18-19, 2018 Jamestown Masters 50 July 21-22, 2018 Mandan How to become a WBSC Umpire Masters 50 Wood Bat July 21-22, 2018 Mandan Masters 60 July 21-22, 2018 Mandan Editor’s Note: The informa- Games or even the Olympics. The a Certification Seminar of their Fall State (new in 2018) TBD Fargo tion below was provided by Kevin following will provide informa- choice. Ryan, USA Softball Director of tion on obtaining certifi cation as a What to expect at a WBSC W’ S P D L Umpires. The organization he is WBSC umpire. Certifi ed Umpire School Class C July 28-29, 2018 Grand Forks describing is the governing body First, you must be a registered Prior to attending, a candidate Class D July 28-29, 2018 Grand Forks of international softball, formerly Umpire with USA softball. To must complete and achieve 90% Rec 1 August 11-12, 2018 West Fargo known as the International Softball register as an umpire within USA mark on a 100 question pre-qual- Rec 2 July 28-29, 2018 Grand Forks Federation. The initial WBSC Softball, contact your local associa- ifi cation rules exam. The exam Rec 3 East August 11-12, 2018 Jamestown signify the new organization which tion. USA Softball has all types of must be taken online at the WBSC Rec 3 West August 4-5, 2018 Bismarck covers both baseball and softball for umpire training available. There Ump School (30% of total mark). Masters August 18-19, 2018 Bismarck international events, including the are rules clinics, mechanics schools At the certifi cation seminar, major Olympics. and advanced fast pitch camps rule and mechanics differences C- S P D L North Dakota has one umpire at the local, national or regional are reviewed during a two day All Divisions September 8-9, 2018 Fargo who has gone through the process levels. Umpires who take the time classroom and on fi eld drills ses- listed below and is a Certifi ed to advance their knowledge and sion. The umpire is evaluated in J.O. F P D L WBSC Umpire. She is Naomi Er- increase their skill level will have a plate mechanic drill (10%) using 10 & Under July 13-15, 2018 Fargo dahl, currently living in Bismarck the ability to be assigned to Local, either live pitching or a pitching 12 & Under July 13-15, 2018 Fargo and working as a Recreation Spe- Regional and National Champion- machine. Case plays (5%) and 14 & Under July 13-15, 2018 Fargo cialist for the Mandan Parks and ships. Umpires can increase both mechanics plays 5%) are off ered to 16 & Under July 13-15, 2018 Fargo Recreation Department. In the rules and mechanics skills by at- each candidate to describe the rule 18 & Under July 13-15, 2018 Fargo Fall issue of Softball News, we tending clinics held both on the interpretations and 4 umpire rota- spotlighted Naomi and her well Local regional and National level. tions. Candidates are evaluated in deserved achievement. At that Once an umpire has been registered games, one game in each position 2018 State Tournament Entry Fees time, I only knew that she had as a USA Softball umpire for at (50%). Overall the umpire must (No charges from 2018) scored one of the highest scores least seven years, worked at least achieve a 90% or higher score to possible at the WBSC Certifi ca- four USA Softball National Cham- be certifi ed. C F tion School and did not know how pionships, two of which are in the Once certified, the umpire is Junior Olympics Fast Pitch $200 she had arrived at this milestone same category of play and from an eligible to be assigned to a WBSC MSP - Open, B, C & D $225 in her umpiring career. When upper level national championship, World Championship. Each partici- MSP & WSP - Masters/Rec $175 I read the information below, I they can apply for the USA Softball pating country can select from their WSP Class C & D $200 began to appreciate how much Elite Umpire program. Once they eligible list of certifi ed umpires, and Co-ed $150 work and eff ort she had to put in have gained this status they can the host country usually has 3 or 4 MSP Fall TBD to achieve her goal. The entire apply for a WBSC Umpire Certifi - selections. Some countries partici- umpire fraternity is proud of you cation School. pating in the championship may not and the eff ort you put into reach- When applying for a WBSC have certifi ed umpires, therefore if ing your goal. Walt Stack Umpire Certification Seminar, more umpires are needed, based on Umpires must have completed the the number of teams participating, By KEVIN RYAN application and have it approved the WBSC can add as many at-large IMPORTANT DATES IN 2018 USA Softball Director of Umpires and signed by the umpire’s UIC and umpires as required. Many umpires want to know how USA Softball (to verify qualifi ca- For further information, contact Spring Meeting and Hall of Fame Banquet: ...... Saturday, April 7 they can be selected to umpire at tions) and approved by the WBSC. USA Director of Umpires Kevin Adult Roster Deadline: ...... June 11 • After June 11, $25.00 fee World Championships, Regional Once this is completed the umpire Ryan at kryan@usaso ball.com Final Roster Deadline: ...... June 19 is eligible to be invited to attend Classifi cation Meeting: ...... July 6 National Tournaments: ...... MSP Masters 35 and 45; WSP Masters 35 ...... Mandan, August 24 to August 26 Northern National Tournament Men’s Class D: ...... Fargo; 8/31-9/2 2018 National Council Meeting: ...... Oklahoma City; Oct. 27 - Nov. 1

JO GIRLS FAST PITCH DATES AND LOCATIONS: Tryouts for 12U All American Games: ...... Bismarck April 29, 1 pm. All American games 12U: ...... June 30-July 2, Oklahoma City JO Girls Fast pitch state tournament: ...... July 13-15 Fargo 6 – Softball News Spring 2018 Insurance USA Softball of North Dakota registered team, will have a 2MM liability insurance policy starting in 2018. Adult USA Softball teams and leagues will now be insured for Winter Meeting liability as part of their registration. You can name fi eld owners and tournament direc- EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING 2018 tors as additional insurers for liability at no extra cost. More information to follow. Men’s Slow Pitch Mr. Gulmon called the meeting to order. Reported by Roger Weigel MSC - Re-appoint Scott Collins and Wayne Beyer to Executive Board. Appoint Darin Recommendations from MSP group to the Executive Committee. Krueger to Executive Board. Appoint Mike Wolf Assistant Commissioner and member fi nance No motions for the Executive Committee to consider. committee. Motion by Jack Lukes, second Greg Kaeding, motion passed. Tournament series - Participation been going will. Continue off ering. Monsta will sponsor MSC - Approved state tournament sites and dates. Motion Mike Wolf, second Wayne tournaments, prize package; approximately $10,000. Beyer, motion passed. Promote open state tournaments - brainstorming methods to attract additonal teams. Cur- MSC - Approve new fee structure. rently have two teams not eligible to participate in “C” State. Adult teams - $75.00 Coed - $20.00 Classifi cation of Masters teams - rely on Masters committee to consider fairness when Fall league teams - $20.00 setting up state tournaments. Church league - $20.00 Last years “C” State Champ (3XGear/The Box/Sportsend) reclassifi ed to “C+”. One-time tournament roster - $25.00 Motion Scott Collins, second Chris Hutton, motion passed. Discussion to start fall state tournament. Tentative date of October 6th in Fargo. Two divi- sions with max of 12 teams per division. MSC - Approve 2017 fi nancial statement and 2018 budget. Motion Darin Krueger, second Scott Brahos, motion passed. 5 on 5 state tournaments, new concept used nationally and tried in Williston last year. Williston very successful nad tweaked rules as season progressed to sanction teams. Approved charity home run rule request, McQuade, Center, United Tribes, Bismarck May, Grand Forks July Classic, Grand Forks Buff alo Wild Wings, Fargo Michelob Lite and Herds Mike Peterson tasked to establish structure/guidelines and bring to Spring meeting. and Horns Fargo. Motion Chris Hutton, second Darin Krueger, motion passed. McQuade Tournament - tentative plans to have a “B” Division and separate “C” Division. USA softball National Team renew $1500 contribution. Motion Scott Brahos, second State pick-up player forms. Wayne Beyer, motion passed. League reps need to be more diligent. GFP All American Games 2018 cost $600. Motion Scott Collins, second Mike Wolf, Continuing education for league reps and team managers. motion passed. Revisit pick-up player forms to include more complete/better guidance. Pay $5000 USA Softball continuity fee. Motion Jack Lukes, second Scott Brahos. Motion Women’s Slow Pitch passed. Reported by Amy Anderson State tournament JO GFP umpire pay two-person system $50 per game. Single umpire Recommendations from WSP group to the Executive Committee $70 per game. Motion Jack Lukes, second Mike Wolf, motion passed. Discussed league reps and duties - we realize that some of our more qualifi ed women who Women’s State Rec 3 are helping out our state appointed league reps are not listed on the contact form online. West - Bismarck 8/4 & 5 This is aff ecting communication. We will bring up to the Executive committee to add certain East - Jamestown 8/11 & 12 individuals to contact forms. Motion Chris Hutton, second Amy Anderson, motion passed. Found that new state tournament dates and sites may not work due to Rec 2 & Rec 3 teams Mr. Gulmon and Amy Anderson to update offi cial Women’s league rep list. playing state the same weekend. We will lose teams with dual rostered players. We discussed going back to Rec 3, E&W. All Board of Directors, Commissioner, UIC, National Tournament Directors and ACE Rec 3 E - Jamestown 8/11 & 8/12 Program coaches of USA Softball of North Dakota must complete Safe Sport training course Rec 3 W - Bismarck 8/5 & 8/6 regarding sexual misconduct. To be complete by Spring meeting. (due to other huge tournaments in Bismarck 8/11 & 8/12, worried about Established a 5 on 5 - Fall league state committee. Mike Peterson, Chair, Nick Gulmon, having enough umps.) Sam Martin, Darin Krueger, R.C. Courtright and Scott Brahos. Discussed the problems with incomplete and illegal rosters defi nitely falling on the re- Respectfully submitted, sponsibility of the team manager who signs the rosters. Greg Kaeding Secretary/Treasurer JO Girls Fastpitch Meeting USA SOFTBALL OF ND JO MEETING Winter Meeting Gladstone Inn, Jamestown, ND • October 15, 2017, 10:00 a.m. USA SOFTBALL OF NORTH DAKOTA ADVISORY MEETING Agenda A. In attendance: January 2018 Brian Neuhardt, JO Commissioner RC Courtright, USA of ND Offi ce Meeting was called to order by Dick Gulmon, Commissioner Billy Schmidt, Bismarck Zac Hay, Bismarck Pat Johnson, West Fargo Thor Nelson, Minot General Meeting Jason Lindgren, Valley City Misty Lindgren, Valley City Spring meeting and HOF banquet - April 7. Tara Roaldson, Jamestown Kevin Gall, Jamestown Doug Richter, Williston Classifi cation meeting - July 6. Discussed the state of Fastpitch for JO in North Dakota. There was someone in Langdon 2018 Council meeting - Oklahoma City, October 27 - November 1. that was interested in having a tournament. They were looking at putting on a tournament in Roster deadline 6/11/2018, after 6/11, $25 late fee. June. Pat Johnson was going to check on the Moorhead program to see if they would register in North Dakota for next season!!! Roster fi nal change deadline 6/19/2018. We went thru the procedures for registering tournaments. That fee or amount may change All Adult and JO GFP Invitational Tournaments must be sanctioned by Tournament Co- at the winter meeting. The executive committee will take a look at the fee structure next ordinator Roger Weigel. winter. Per RC... All USA Softball of North Dakota tournaments must follow invitational and State Trouna- We went thru the process of registering teams and individuals thru the USA softball ment guidelines. system. We agreed to keep it as is and send in the EXCEL spreadsheets to Brian and keep Mandan and Fargo received James Ferrell Awards for National Trounaments in 2017. downloading them as in the past. Reports It was suggested that we update the master fi le that contains the contacts for all the pro- Dick Gulmon, Mike Wolf and R.C. Courtright gave report on national council meeting. grams. Need to e-mail the updated fi le out to everyone ASAP. Mike Wolf reported on playing rule changes. We discussed issues that happened last year with kids registering on 2 diff erent rosters for state. In the past it has never really been an issue, but for some reason we had issues this year. Dick Gulmon reported on code changes. After discussion we will follow the National offi ce rules, which state that a player can be Mike Peterson reported on player classifi ecation. released from one roster and moved to another roster without the fi rst team approval. R.C. Courtright reported on state offi ce and website. We agreed that all Rosters must be in by JULY 1st. Which also is the deadline for the state tournament entry fees. Failure to do so may result in at that team not participating Roger Weigel reported on tournaments. in the State Tournament. All players must also be registered in North Dakota to play Brian Neuhardt reported on JO GFP. for a North Dakota team. Jack Jones, Chris Hutton gave report on Wounded Warrior softball. Discussed summer tournaments and current schedule. It was suggested by Commissioner Dick Gulmon recapped 2017 softball season. Neuhardt that we move some dates around because we have 3 tournaments on Fathers Day weekend. Minot, Grand Forks and West Fargo. Minot and West Fargo informed us that those Norhter Region 2018 National Tournaments were the only dates they could hold a tournament. Commissioner Neuhardt will check with 1. GFP8U, 10UA, 12UB, 10UC, 12UC, 14UC - Yankton, SD 7/23 - 7/28. Grand Forks to see what their situation is and to see if they could switch to another weekend. 2. GFP 12UA, 10UB, - Wausau, WI 7/25 - 7/29 3. GFP 14 UA, 16UB, - Rochester, MN 8/2 - 8/5 We need to contact Mike at the Ballyard to see what his plans will be for a tournament for 4. MSP Northern D - Fargo, ND 8/31 - 9/2 the weekend before state. Pat informed us that Fargo Parks and Rec may want to host that 5. MSP Master 35, 45, and WSP 35 - Mandan, ND 8/24 - 8/26. tournament on the weekend before state on the North Diamonds. National Tournament Bid Rotation It was suggested that the tournaments dates be set and published ASAP... 1. Fargo 2018 Discussed Fargo hosting the State Tournament for the 2018 at the North Fields. That was 2. Bismarck 2019 approved by all. Discussed Minot hosting the tournament for 2019. No objections were heard. 3. Mandan 2020 All agreed to send state to Minot for 2019. Contingent upon approval from Executive Board. Northern Region There was discussion on the way teams are classifi ed at state. Should we combine the 1. Scott Gagnon - Regional Director 16U and 18U B tournaments as one, along with the 12U and 14U B also. No representatives 2. Steve Riswold - Regional UIC 3. Norhtern Region VP/USA BOD - Dick Gulmon JO Girls Fastpitch continued on page 7 Softball News Spring 2018 – 7 Mandan and Fargo to host Tharaldson sponsors State Softball National Tournaments Trophies for twenty straight years In you are looking to add a National Tournament appearance to your Number of trophies and banners has increased signifi cantly over that time frame softball resume, North Dakota would be a good place to look this season. Mandan will host the Men’s Slow Pitch Masters 35 and 45 as well as the Super sponsor and softball and supported fi ve diff erent levels Women’s Masters 35 August 24 through 26, 2018. Fargo will also host booster Gary Tharaldson and his of senior ball many years. the Men’s Class D Northern National from August 31 through September wife Connie continue providing all He and his wife also sponsored 2 at the new North Fargo Softball Complex. the trophies and the championship women’s teams for 15 years as In addition, Mandan was also awarded the Men’s Masters 35 and 45 banners for all state softball tourna- well as both Boys and Girls Junior and the Women’s Masters 35 for the 2019 season. The Women’s 35 was ments sponsored by the North Da- Olympic teams. His sponsored added to Mandan’s Men’s 35 and 45 tournament for the 2018 season and kota Amateur Softball Association. teams have participated in over 30 also for the 2019 season. Tharaldson assumed his spon- National Tournaments. North Dakota has been the home for several National tournaments the sorship in 1999 and has provided In addition to his sponsorships, past several years with Mandan actively bidding on a number of slow all state awards and banners each Gary was also a player during his pitch events with great success. In addition Fargo has been active in the year since. time as a sponsor winning two bidding process at the National Council Meetings. Bismarck, Minot and Included are all the awards for National Championships and over Grand Forks have also been the homes of National events. the Junior Olympic program as 1,000 games as a pitcher. His best North Dakota teams have supported eff orts to attract National tourna- well as adult awards in both slow year was a season in which he won ments which have enjoyed local support for each event. Further details pitch and fast pitch. The number 58 games, losing only 2 and he car- on the 2018 tournaments will be published in the Summer issue of North of trophies and banners depends on ried a .600 batting average over his Dakota Softball News. the number of teams entering each long career. of the state tournaments. He is a member of the North Gary Tharaldson The Tharaldsons have dedicated Dakota Amateur Softball Hall of Commissioner’s Column much of their lives to supporting Fame and in 2011 was elected to trophies and banners only through ASA softball as sponsors for not the National Hall of Fame during the cooperation and generosity of continued from page 3 just one or two divisions but across induction ceremonies at the annual Gary Tharaldson and his various USA MSP Championship C also newly named, Walt Stack Umpire the whole spectrum of ASA soft- ASA Council Meeting in Myrtle enterprises. NDASA gratefully in Prairie Island 8/31-9-3. We will Award of Excellence. Walt Stack ball. Tharaldsons sponsored Men’s Beach, South Carolina. acknowledges his many, many con- also participate in the All Ameri- has meant so much to this organi- A, B and C Slow pitch Divisions NDASA is able to provide the tributions to North Dakota softball. can Games again in 2018 for the zation for the past 50 years that it is 12U age division in GFP. Tryouts appropriate that we honor him with will be April 29th in Bismarck to his namesake on this prestigious participate with 360 Athletes at umpire award. Gulmon formally inducted to Hall of Honor the Hall of Stadium in Oklahoma I would like to thank the Ex- State softball commissioner state tournaments held in the state. City June 29-July 1. We will send ecutive Board, State Commit- Dick Gulmon of Valley City was Gulmon was especially honored 5 players and one coach again this tee’s, League Reps, Umpires, formally inducted into the National for his work on the Equipment year. For more information con- Tournament Directors, Park & Rec Softball Hall of Honor at the annual Standards Committee where he tact our JO Commissioner Brian Partners, sponsors, and all the vol- ASA Council meeting in Greens- spearheads the eff orts in the de- Neuhardt of Bismarck. unteers who make it possible to run boro, North Carolina. His election velopment of state of the art bat The USA Softball of North our program in North Dakota. We follows a 30 year playing career and ball testing protocol which Dakota Hall of Fame Committee could not have the quality program and administrative offi ces in the help level the playing fi eld. He is met in January and reviewed 25 we do without the hard work and North Dakota softball association and has been a leader for change candidates for the HOF. It is my dedication of so many. My thanks which eventually led to his ap- throughout the sport of softball. pleasure to extend my sincere to each of you. pointment as State Commissioner Summary on Gulmon’s congratulations to Curt Krahler of Lastly, I would like to thank in 2013. A banker in his home town Hall of Fame Plaque Fessenden, the family of the late our friends at the USA Softball of Valley City, he has been active At a time when the sport of Sponsors Chuck and Marge Oberg National Offi ce. This staff led by in community aff airs as well as in softball was at a crossroads with of Wahpeton, Tom Harty of James- Craig Cress do a tremendous job softball. He is the President of the new equipment technology, Dick town, Dennis Bense of Bismarck, throughout the year and we appre- city Park Board, a past President Gulmon played an integral role in and Greg Kaeding of Fargo. These ciate all the assistance we receive of the Rotary Club, Treasurer of the Certifi ed Equipment standards Hall of Famers will be inducted at from them for our program. the Rural Fire Department, serves of USA Softball. Having been in- the Hall of Fame banquet to be held Wishing you all a great season in on the Valley City State College volved in the game at a variety of in Jamestown April 7, 2018. Also 2018 and hope to see you around Foundation Board of Directors and levels, Gulmon personifi es leader- at the banquet we will award sev- the diamond. he has also been active in his parish Council for over 20 years. Gulmon ship through his contributions to the has also served on various USA eral Umpire Elite awards, National USA Softball Commissioner of on the Finance Committee of St. sport. In addition to his playing and Indicator Award, USA Softball North Dakota Catherine’s Catholic Church. His Softball Committees. His most management of teams during his noteworthy position is his role as Distinguished Service Award and Dick Gulmon elevation to the National Hall of career, Gulmon has also served in Honor makes a total of four North Chairman of the Equipment Testing a variety of leadership capacities. & Certifi cation Committee, a role Dakotans who have been so hon- Serving on the North Dakota Board ored: Duane “Tiny” Schafer, long he has held since 2005. In this role, JO GIRLS FASTPITCH of Directors and Classification Gulmon spearheads the eff orts in time State Commissioner; L.R. Committee since 1989, Gulmon “Tarz” Timn, legendary umpire and the development of state-of-the-art continued from page 6 was appointed President of USA bat and ball testing protocol which former Vice President of the state Softball of North Dakota in 1996 were present and an email will be sent out to those programs that that help level the playing fi eld. A great softball association; and Gary Thar- and became Commissioner in 2013. rule would aff ect. Also agreed that Pat and Brian will continue to clas- ambassador the USA Softball, aldson, a long time sponsor of some At the National level, Gulmon has sify teams for state tournament play. Reiterated that we need 4 teams Gulmon is and has been a leader of the best teams to play in the state served on the USA Softball Board in each age bracket and division to hold that tournament or they will of change throughout the sport of and his continuing sponsorship of of Directors and has served on the all play in the A division. the trophies and banners for all the softball. B. Norhtern Region Naitonal Tournament 1. Class A tournament Class B tournament Sites 18U Novi, MI Springfi eld, MO 16U Bloominton, IN North Mankato, MN 2018Wahpeton, North Dakota 14U Rochester, MN DeCatur, IL 12U Wausau, WI Yankton, SD 10U Yankton, SD Wausau, WI Slowpitch Softball Tournaments 12U All American Games. MEN’S The games have been moved to the weekend of June 30th thru July Check Date Tourney Teams/Class Format Fee 2nd. In Oklahoma City. Sun., May 6 Spring Classic 5 Rec I, II RR $125 Tryouts will be held in Bismarck on Sunday, April 29th, 1:00 p.m. 5 Rec III, IV JO Commissioner Brian Neuhardt will oversee the tryouts. Also discussed with Kyle Christansen (coach from 2017) that the Sat. June 2 Blue Goose Days 8 Rec III & IV DE $125 tryout process he should look at position players. Most of the teams that were there had strong teams that were picked at the beginning of the year by coaches and had played in tournaments all year long. Fri., July 13 Summer Classic 8 Rec III-IV 3 GG $125 After the meeting Misty Lindgren had asked to help out with registra- tion of players for next season. Team Name: Classifi cation: The fi rst regional Class C games for Region 8, 10U, 12U and 14U Coach’s Name: Email: will be held in Yankton, SD on July 27th-29th. Will need to inform the state teams of those games... Coach’s Address: Home Phone: Work Phone: Cell Phone: Fax: Payment guarantees your team a place in the tournament Make Checks Payable to Wahpeton Parks Send to: Wahp-Breck Softball Phone: (701) 642-2811 304 5th St. South Fax: (701) 642-5053 Wahpeton, ND 58075 E-mail: [email protected] 8 – Softball News Spring 2018

Wounded Warriors pose with Major League Hall of Fame member Al Kaline Wounded Warriors help at kids camp at the training site of Detroit Tigers

Greg Reynolds scores for WWAST

Beef Briseno awaits the throw at 1B

Zach (Beef) Briseno with Lakeland area WWII vet.

Dan (DeLo) Lopez in Tiger Town hitting cage with Kids Camper WWAST player Brent Nadjadi working at Kids Camp Softball News Spring 2018 – 9

WWAST & Publix Softball Team Warriors on 3!

WWAST with Miken Pro players 10 – Softball News Spring 2018 UUSASA SOFTBALL 2018 USA Softball Code Changes with Comments as of October 27, 2017 NOTE: All changes below are EFFECTIVE January 1, 2018 unless otherwise noted.

Article Number Change ship play. directors to acquire the best Pitch. This National Champi- Gold and 18-Under Gold bracket. When the num- Article 206 A and most recent information onship Final shall have dates Fast Pitch. All other National ber of teams entered in the A. Membership Article 301 D 01 c 01. on teams and players. The established and approved by Championship Finals will tournament from a region is 01. An umpire may be- board will also review rosters the Executive Director. utilize a minimum of two greater than the number of Player Participation from other associations on (2) umpires per game. In all sections on the bracket, the come a member by placing c. Major Plus teams can Comments: Gives the his/her membership with an annual basis and adjust Executive Director the fl ex- divisions where there are fi nal alignment shall be de- get their players anywhere in player ratings or add the pool play games, a minimum termined by the USA Softball the local association where the East Section for the East ibility to approve dates for they reside or work either as players to the database. Men’s SP 35+, 40+, 45+ and of two (2) umpires per game Representative. National or the West Section will be utilized. 01. Teams will represent an umpire or in their regular for the West National. Comments: Allows the Women’s SP 35+. occupation. Men’s Slow Pitch National Comments: Adds Men’s the Region where they are 02. Umpires become Comments: Increases Classifi cation Board to re- Article 309 C 01 a Class C Slow Pitch to require registered members of USA Softball on the area where Men’s Senior view available rosters from three (3) umpires per game. b. Territorial Tournaments. Slow Pitch Major Plus teams Men’s Class A and Wom- The association with the a voluntary basis and agree other softball associations en’s Open Slow Pitch. These to be governed by the Code, can select for their roster. and make adjustments to Article 310 R most teams will draw fi rst, National Championship Fi- the association with the sec- rules and regulations of the individual player ratings. nals shall be scheduled as Exception: In Men’s Open USA Softball. The placement Article 306 A 06 ond most teams shall draw DIVISIONS per approval of the Executive Fast Pitch, Master’s 50-Over second, etc. In case of ties of umpire membership with Article 307 H 02 02. Director. Fast Pitch and Men’s Senior USA Softball does not estab- between associations, the tie 05. Men’s 21-Under Slow Mandatory Team Reclas- 60-Over Fast Pitch a mini- will be determined alphabeti- lish an employer/employee Pitch Comments: Gives the sifi cation Executive Director ability mum of two (2) umpires per cally. When more than one relationship and no umpire game will be used. is considered an employee 06. Men’s 19-Under EXCEPTION: Coed to approve when the tourna- team within an association of USA Softball or the local Slow Pitch Class C and Class D teams ments can be held. Comments: Adds Men’s must draw, positions to draw association, but is instead must finish in the top ten Open Fast Pitch as an excep- shall be determined based on Comments: Adds Men’s alphabetical order according acting as an independent 19-Under as a new classifi - percent (10%) of National Article 309 C 01 b tion – requiring a minimum contractor. Championships in two (2) of two (2) umpires per game. to the team name listed on cation of Men’s Slow Pitch. Men’s Class B Slow Pitch. the roster. 03. Membership is on an 2018 USA Softball Code consecutive years before This National Championship annual basis and shall expire they will be required to play Article 311 A 04 b c. Seeding (Adults) Previ- Changes with Comments as Finals shall be scheduled as ous Year's Finish and Host December 31 of each year of October 27th, 2017 in the next higher classifi ca- per approval of the Executive Delete 04. A member of the armed tion in USA Softball Cham- Teams... Director. a. Men’s Major Fast Pitch 01. Seeded Teams. Only forces may become a 'mili- Article 306 A 12 pionship Play. Comments: Gives the b. Men’s Open Fast Pitch tary' member umpire only teams that shall be seeded are DIVISIONS Comments: Removes Executive Director abil- c. Men’s 23-Under Fast the previous year's defending while stationed overseas, by Men’s Class B Slow Pitch ity to approve when the Pitch placing his/her membership 12. Co-ed Slow Pitch champions, second place from the exception, making tournaments can be held. Comments: Removes teams in both the GOLD through their military base CLASSIFICATIONS it a requirement that the top athletic offi ce. Open Men’s Open Fast Pitch from and SILVER brackets and ten (10%) of National Cham- Article 310 the required 3 Game Guaran- the current year's host teams. 05. Umpire membership C pionships move to the next General Regulations of may be declined or revoked D tee Bracket. 02. Multiple Seeds and higher classifi cation for the Championship Play. All Hosts(s) Teams. In all class- for unethical, immoral or un- E next season. championship play must be professional conduct. Before Article 311 A 05 a es, the defending cham- Comments: Adds Class E conducted in accordance pion, second place and host declining or revoking mem- as a new classifi cation of Co- Article 308 F with this Code and the play- (New) 05. 2 Tiered Brack- bership, the umpire must teams shall draw for opposite ed Slow Pitch and also adds a ing rules as adopted by USA et. Men’s Open Fast Pitch brackets and shall play the be given the same hearing Delete USA Softball – all teams are placed into National Championship. Men’s Championship Series Softball. In case of a confl ict fi rst day and the fi rst round procedure afforded a team between the playing rules, a double elimination (Gold) or team member as set forth of the tournament with times Article 307 G 02 Comments: Removes USA Softball Code and Pro- bracket. After a team is 0-2 or being assigned by the tourna- in Article 305, Suspension of the Men’s Slow Pitch Na- cedural Manual, the USA 1-2, that team is placed in to a this Code. Duties. The duty of the ment committee for the best tional Championship Series Procedural Manual shall take new double elimination (Sil- gate. board is to uphold the na- as a USA Softball event. precedence. ver) bracket. Both bracket B. Championship Play tional team and player clas- Comments: Establishes 01. Only USA Softball- winners will be awarded as the bracket draw procedures sifi cation strategy. Article 309 C 01 e, f, g, k, Comments: Establishes National Champions member umpires may be The board, in concert with that the USA Softball Pro- for the 2- Tiered Bracket for used in championship play. the National Offi ce staff , will e. Men’s 35-Over Masters cedural Manual shall take Comments: Establishes Men’s Open Fast Pitch Comments: Clarifi es an oversee a National Player Slow Pitch. This National precedence over the USA that the Men’s Open Fast Pitch umpire’s membership with Classifi cation Registry. The Championship Final shall Softball Code. uses the 2-Tiered Bracket Article 316 A 06 c 03 the USA Softball Local As- Board, in concert with the have dates established and Delete sociation. National Office staff, will approved by the Executive Article 310 R Article 311 B 05 c. Slow Pitch communicate with tourna- Director. (NEW) 05. 2 Tiered 01. Men’s Class A Slow f. Men’s 40-Over Slow Umpires. Three (3) um- Article 301 C 02 c 02 c. ment directors of National pires per game shall be used Bracket for Men's Open Pitch Fast Pitch Championships to ensure all Pitch. This National Champi- Fast Pitch. a. Bracket Pro- 02. Men’s Industrial Slow onship Final shall have dates for all games at National 02. In all adult Fast Pitch, teams participating in USA Championship Finals in tection. The USA Softball Pitch Softball Slow Pitch events established and approved by Offi cial Double Elimination 03. Men’s Church Slow no USA Men’s National the Executive Director. Adult Fast Pitch, Men’s Class Team member may partici- are within the procedures. A Slow Pitch, Men’s Class B Bracket for both GOLD and Pitch The board will also seek out g. Men’s 45-Over Slow SILVER shall be used. Teams 04. Men’s Major 16-Inch pate below the Major level. Pitch. This National Champi- Slow Pitch, Men’s Class C further information by con- Slow Pitch, Men’s 16” Slow qualifying from the same Comments: Removes Comments: Clarifies tacting local commissioners, onship Final shall have dates region shall be protected, Men’s Church Slow Pitch established and approved by Pitch, Men’s Modifi ed Pitch where USA Men’s National player representatives, dis- and Girls’ USA Softball where possible, from play- as a National Championship Team members can partici- trict commissioners, league the Executive Director. ing each other in the first Final. k. Women’s 35-Over Slow 12-Under, 14-Under, 16-Un- pate in National Champion- directors, and tournament der, 18-Under and 16-Under two rounds of the winner's

2018 USA Softball Procedural Manual Changes with Comments as of November 2, 2017 NOTE: All changes below are EFFECTIVE January 1, 2018 unless otherwise noted.

Article Number Comments: Lowers mini- Article 303 B 03 Housing, local transporta- housing, local transportation tion and $100.00 per diem/ Article 101 D 06 b mum number of registered Eff ective 2019 tion and a minimum of $100 and a minimum of $125.00 per day teams from 200 to 100, to per diem/per day for the per diem/per day Comments: Changes the Comments: Clarifi es the Housing, local transporta- allow the Local JO Commis- tion for UIC and a minimum assistant tournament umpire- Comments: Establishes appointment for a USA Soft- duties of both offi cers if a Re- sioner on the Council. in-chief when one is assigned the minimum per day per ball Tournament Rep from gion decides to elect both a of $125 per diem/per day for the tournament umpire- Comments: Establishes diem for the USA Softball mandatory to optional. Regional Director and the minimum per day per Tournament Rep. Vice President. Article 201 A 04 in-chief. The UIC shall ar- rive one day prior to the diem for the assistant UIC. Article 306 B 02 b NOTE: A proxy request Article 303 C 11 Article 104 A 04 for either a commissioner scheduled opening day of the Category II (17-48 Teams) Championship. Article 303 C 11 When assigned, a USA Junior Olympic Individual Council Members emeritus, council member emeritus, Junior Olympic Comments: Establishes Eff ective 2019 Softball Tournament Rep- Medallion on Ribbons – 04. Local association Ju- USA Softball Tournament resentative, who shall ar- First, Second and Third Place nior Olympic commissioners Commissioner or a Past the minimum per day per President shall not be granted diem for the UIC. Representative, who shall rive one day prior to the Comments: Changes to for each association with a arrive one day prior to the scheduled opening day of medallion on ribbons for minimum of 100 registered Comments: Allows a Article 303 B 04 scheduled opening day of the tournament, shall receive individual awards. Junior Olympic teams in the proxy request for Junior the tournament, shall receive housing, local transporta- preceding year. Olympic Commissioners. Eff ective 2019 Softball News Spring 2018 – 11 UUSASA SOFTBALL 2018 USA Softball Rule Changes with Comments as of November 9, 2017 NOTE: All changes below are EFFECTIVE January 1, 2018 unless otherwise noted.

Rule 3, Section 7C: time limit for all Junior Rules referenced below • When not using the DP/ at bat unless the team has a player is unable to take their (JO Only) All equipment Olympic Fast Pitch Classifi - are aff ected by this change FLEX any 9 can play de- substitute not already in the turn to at bat the batting order that shall be inspected by the cation of Play, Pool Play and for JO Pool Play Only. fense; batting order that can take will be compressed with no umpire is to be placed out- Elimination Play, that uses a Rule 1, Extra Player (EP) • When using the DP/ their place. out recorded for the injured side the dugout/bench area time limit. It changes it from Defi nition; FLEX any 8 and the FLEX • When batting more than player unable to bat. prior to the start of the game 1 hour 40 minutes fi nish the Rule 4 Section 1C, Added can play defense; nine defensive players and for pregame inspection. inning to 1 hour 20 minutes New [C]; • The Batting order will have no available substitutes; Rule 8, Section 7F-I Eff ect, finish the inning and play Rule 4 Section 1D [2A] always remain fi xed; • If an injured player is not [3] (Dead Ball Appeal): Comment: Requires another inning or 1/2 inning Exception; • Any Player may be used able to bat in their place in Once the ball has been teams to put all equipment to if the home team is ahead. Rule 4 Section, 3B; as a courtesy runner for the the batting order, the batting be inspected by the umpires returned to the infi eld and Rule 4 Section 4, Added pitcher or catcher; order will be compressed to time is called, any COACH outside the dugout/bench Rule 7, Section 2F: G; • Any Player can be used the number of batters in the area before the game begins. or infi elder, with or without Junior Olympic Fast Pitch Rule 4 Section 6D, Adds as a pinch runner for an in- batting order less the injured possession of the ball, may an exception for JO Pool jured player; player with no out recorded Rule 5, Section 10: Pool Play: Nine defensive make a verbal appeal on a players will bat or teams Play only; • If a player is on base for the injured player unable runner missing a base or Junior Olympic Fast Pitch have the following options: Rule 8 Section 10C, Adds when it is their time to bat; to bat. leaving too soon on a caught Classifi cations of Play, for 1. Bat nine players without an exception for JO Pool • They will be removed Comment: This require- fl y ball. No runner may leave Pool Play and the DP/Flex. Play only; from the base and take their ment now allows you to ei- a base during this period as Elimination Play with a 2. Bat nine Players and use turn at bat. ther bat 9 players or bat up to the ball remains dead until time limit, the time limit will the DP/Flex. Eff ects of this rule are as • The person who they are every roster player present. the next pitch. be 1-Hour and 20 minutes follows: running for will be called out. 3. Bat up to and including Any player can be a pinch Comment: Adds a coach and finish the inning and all roster players without a • Players not listed in a • When only batting nine runner or a courtesy runner. then play one more complete defensive players or using to those who can make a dead DP/Flex. defensive position will be Any player on base, running ball appeal. inning, or half inning if the 4. Bat up to and including listed as an EP; the DP/FLEX; for someone else is removed home team is ahead. all roster players with the • EPs will be listed begin- • If an injured player is to take their turn at bat, an not able to bat an out will REV 2 dated 11-09-17 Comment: Changes the DP/Flex. ning in the 10th spot of the out recorded for who they batting order; be recorded for their turn are running. If an injured Online Registration and Payment Now Open For McQuade Tournament Entry! Wounded Warriors Amputee Softball Team To Appear By MICHAEL WOLF end. They will also be playing in coming in fast and some divisions home run. This has been a popular We estimate that close to 20,000 the tournament as well. are getting close to full. That is a feature at past tournaments. Last people will look through the silent The 43rd Annual Sam McQuade We are planning to have “Mili- hint to the Men’s D, and Men’s Rec year, we raised over $5,000 for lo- auction items over the course of the Sr. Budweiser Charity Softball tary Appreciation ” and “First I to get your registrations in since cal charities from those teams that weekend! If you have any items Tournament is rapidly approach- Responders” appreciation games these are only 32 team divisions. purchased an extra home run so it that you would like to donate to the ing and will be held June 22, 23, Friday Night. The Wounded War- Men’s Rec 3 and 4 divisions also is a great fundraiser for the tourna- silent auction, please contact me. and 24 in Bismarck and Mandan. riors are planning to take on softball fi ll very fast as well. Since there are ment. More information will be Any item that is new, gift certifi - The online registration option players who have been inducted some Men’s B teams in the region, included on the website and in the cates, or sports memorabilia make we’ve made available has worked into the USA Softball of ND Hall we will have a combined Men’s tournament program about purchas- great items for the silent auction. out very well and teams can once of Fame. Jack Jones will be head- Open/A/B division this year. In the ing extra home runs. All donations are tax deductible! again register online and also pay ing a committee that will determine Men’s Masters 35 division, the state We are excited to let you know In addition to our other duties on their registration fee online! This which players will be selected to Men’s Master’s Committee will that we had a record setting year the Board of Directors, Jack Jones is a great addition to the registra- participate in Wounded Warriors once again assist us in seeding the last year as we were able to dis- and I will once again serve as Co- tion process and will give team’s exhibition game. Our second exhi- teams properly. If you are thinking tribute over $105,000 to charitable Tournament Directors. I would immediate confi rmation that their bition game on Friday will feature of putting together a “family” team organizations throughout the state also like thank the other Board of entry has been received. Teams will current and retired ND military per- or a “reunion” team, please contact and with your help and generosity Director members who contribute still be able to register via mail as sonnel taking on First Responders me as well. we hope to be able to donate much their time and talents eff ectively well if they prefer that method but form the Bismarck/Mandan area. We continue to get several re- more with this year’s tournament. in so many ways—Eldie Ulmer, it is highly recommended to register Mike Offerdahl will be heading quests from companies to come Without your help and support, Mike Offerdahl, Cheryl Jones, online. As divisions fi ll, a team a committee that will determine in and set up vendor booths. We this would not be possible! Also, I Brooke (Wolf) Larson, Jim Janusz, may get a verification that their which players will be selected to have found that players and fans can’t go without mentioning all of Sam McQuade Jr., and Shannon registration was received online, participate in the Military Apprecia- enjoy the opportunity to see all of the great volunteer groups who help McQuade-Ely. but it is not a guarantee that you are tion game. We are also looking to the products available to them. It out during the tournament as well If you have any questions or in the tournament. If for some rea- have umpires who have military ties looks as though we will have some as the great people at McQuade concerns, do not hesitate to call, son your division is full when you to umpire the games as well. additional softball vendors at the Distributing who help with the text, or email Jack or myself. My register, you will be notifi ed that We will once again be holding tournament this year and we may tournament—Dee, Kathy, Renae, cell phone is 701-400-2100, and you will be placed on a waiting list. our Cancer Awareness Apprecia- also have vendors in Mandan for and Rhea. Also, it is all of our Jack’s phone number is 701-426- To register online, go to the tion Day on Saturday. Last year those teams that play there. volunteers and volunteer groups 8700. I can be reached via email McQuade website www.mcquades. was the fi rst time we held a cancer Once again this year on the Mc- that help us out in so many ways at [email protected] and com and click on the softball link. awareness day and it was a huge Quade website you will be able to that help make this tournament so Jack can be reached at jack@btinet. You can also print off a paper regis- success! As a result of diff erent click on a link to see all of the teams successful. Thank You! net Since most everyone contacts tration and you should do so to read fundraising activities before and that have registered for the tourna- The silent auction we have dur- Jack or I directly via email, text, or all of the important information during the tournament, we were ment. Our plans are to update this ing the tournament is also an area phone, we are no longer utilizing on that form that managers need able to distribute over $4,000 di- every Friday afternoon. It is a good that raises a considerable amount the McQuade yahoo email. to know about concerning pick-up rectly back to cancer patients in way to make sure that your entry of money for the charities. If you PLEASE, don’t procrastinate as players, wristbands, rosters, etc… the form of Visa gift cards. If you was received and it will save Jack really want to contribute to the the tournament fi lls very quickly. We are excited to announce that would like to make a tax-deductible and Dee and I a lot of phone calls. It tournament in another way, I would Don’t miss out on all of the fun and the Wounded Warriors Amputee monetary donation towards our will also serve as a cross reference like to challenge anyone to provide excitement of the premiere softball Softball Team will be attending our cancer awareness appreciation to make sure everyone is entered in an item for the silent auction or event of the summer—the 43rd An- tournament once again this summer. day please contact me (see contact the correct division. contact a local business in your nual Sam McQuade Sr. Budweiser The Wounded Warriors Amputee information below). At this year’s tournament, we area to donate an item and explain Charity Softball Tournament—So, Softball Team is scheduled to play We are anticipating another will once again off er each team an the benefi ts of the silent auction and register now! exhibition games during the week- record setting year and entries are opportunity to purchase an extra the advertising exposure to them. 12 – Softball News Spring 2018 2018 Umpire and Managers Rules Clinic 2018 USA Softball of North Dakota March 24 Deputy UIC Clinic Gladstone Inn—Jamestown 10:00 Wolf Slow Pitch teams to be moved up March 25 Jamestown Umpires The Buff Lounge 2:00 Krieger March 26 Grand Forks Umpires Public Library Conf. Room #1 7:00 Healey Men’s Teams March 28 Wahpeton Umpires Community Center 6:30 Rader March 28 FYI—Bismarck FP HS Clinic BSC Career Academy 6:00 Gerhardt To Men’s B • Davis Sinclair, Dunseith (Rec March 29 West Fargo Umpires VFW Club 6:30 Olson • 3X Gear/ The Box/ The Bal- 3 West, 4th place) March 29 Fargo Umpires Bowler 7:00 Cole/Pennick lyard/ Sports Cards 4 U, Fargo • Anderson Cabinets, Mandan April 2 Wahpeton Men’s Managers Community Center 6:30 Rader (Class C, 1st Place) (Rec 3 West, Cons, Champs) April 2 Bismarck Men’s Managers Amvet’s Club 6:30 Wolf To Men’s C • Petro Hunt/ Snortums Land- scape & Design, Bismarck (Rec 3 April 3 Wahpeton Women’s/Coed Managers Community Center 6:30 Rader • Ground Round/ Trojan/ Hugo’s, West, Cons, Runner-up) April 3 Bismarck Umpires St. Mary’s Grade School 6:00 Wolf Grand Forks (Class D, 1st Place) • Terhorst, Minot (Rec 3 West, April 3 Grafton Managers/Umpires JR’s (Oakwood) 7:00 Payne • Livewire Electric/ Burnn Boil- Roughrider Champion) April 4 Valley City Umpires/Managers Gaulker Wellness Center 6:30 Krieger er/ 9 Dragons/ Slapshot Pizza, • Healthways, Bismarck (Rec 3 April 4 Fargo Umpires Bowler 7:00 Cole/Pennick Fargo (Class D, 2nd place) April 4 Mandan Managers City Hal 7:00 Wolf West, Pioneer Champion) April 5 Bismarck Women’s Managers Amvet’s Club 6:00 Wolf To Men’s D • Dietz Properties/ Loft Bar & April 5 May/Port Managers & Umpires Floyd’s—Portland 7:00 Payne • Dickson Law/ Knife River/ Grill, Grand Forks (Rec 3 East, April 9 LaMoure Umpires/Managers Center Field Supper Club 6:00 Krieger VU, Bismarck (Rec 1 & E Nat’l, 1st place) April 9 Bismarck Umpires St. Mary’s Grade School 6:00 Wolf 1st place) • Ruby Tuesday, Fargo (Rec 3 April 9 Grand Forks Umpires Public Library Conf. Room #1 7:00 Payne • Center Merchants (Rec 1, 2nd East. 2nd place) April 9 Fargo Umpires Bowler 7:00 Cole/Pennick place) • Hunter Insurance/ Verwest April 11 Devils Lake Umpires/Managers Burdick Arena 6:30 Krieger •Kelly Chiropractic/ Central Construction (Rec 3 East, 3rd April 11 Dickinson Umpires Recreation Center 6:00MT Gerhardt/Wolf Power/ Bruno’s Pizza, Minot (Rec place) April 12 Bismarck Umpires St. Mary’s Grade School 6:00 Wolf 1, 3rd place) • Byte Speed LLC, Fargo (Rec 3 April 14 Fargo Field Clinic Anderson Complex 8:00am Cole/Pennick • Wahus Construction, Bismarck East, 4th place) April 16 Bismarck Umpires St. Mary’s Grade School 6:00 Wolf (Rec 1, 4th place) • Roto-Rooter, West Fargo (Rec 3 April 18 Beulah Umpires/Managers Alibi’s Bar 6:00 Gerhardt/Wolf • Northern Energy Services, East, Roughrider Champion) April 18 Fargo Umpires Park District Offi ces 6:00 Cole/Pennick Williston (McQuades, 1st place; E • Duane’s Gun Repair, Fargo April 19 Mandan Umpires Softball Complex Building 6:00 Wolf Nat’l, 3rd place) (Rec 3 East, Pioneer Champion) April 21 Fargo Field Clinic Anderson Complex 8:00am Cole/Pennick • Ranger Lounge, Sydney, MT • Paradiso, Minot (McQuades, April 23 Bismarck Umpires Make-up Amvet’s Club 6:30 Wolf (E Nat’l, 4th place) 2nd place) April 23 Grand Forks Field Clinic Ulland Park 6:30 Payne To Men’s Rec 1 • Trotter Construction/ Farmers April 24 Bismarck Umpires Field Clinic 16th Street Diamonds 6:00 Wolf • Driftwood Lounge, Wahpeton Union Insurance/ Ryan Schnell, April 25 Mandan Umpires Field Clinic Diamond 8 6:00 Wolf (Rec 2 East, 1st place) Mandan (McQuades, 2nd place) April 25 Grand Forks Field Clinic Ulland Park 6:30 Payne • Sun Pro, Grand Forks (Rec 2 • Reloaded Softball, Wahpeton April 25 Minot Umpires Minot Auditorium-Rec Area 6:00 Lawson East, 2nd place) (Rec 3 challenge, 3 wins) April 25 West Fargo Umpires VFW Club—Test Night 6:30 Olson • Kensal Merchants (Rec 2 East, • Law Dawgs, Minot (Rec 3 West April 25 Wahpeton Ump Field Clinic & Test Diamond 2 6:30 Rader 3rd place) challenge, 4 wins) April 26 Fargo Umpires Clinic/Pre-Test Old Chicago 6:00 Cole/Pennick • JR’s Bar, Grafton (Rec 2 East, To Men’s Rec 3 April 26 Bismarck Women’s Managers Sticker Bats All Season’s Arena 4:00 Wolf Consolation Champion) • Carrington (Rec 4 East, 1st April 26 West Fargo Managers VFW Club 6:30 Olson • Rubicon Mortgage Advisors, place) April 29 West Fargo Umpires Field Clinic North Elmwood 6:30 Olson Bismarck (Rec 2 West, 1st place) • Rondiaz Rum, Fargo (Rec 4 April 29 Jamestown Field Clinic Hillcrest Softball Complex 1:00 Krieger • Pub 21 (Geer), Bismarck (Rec East, 2nd place) April 30 Bismarck Umpires Field Clinic 16th Street Diamonds 6:00 Wolf 2 West, 3rd place) • Bonzers, Grand Forks (Rec 4 May 1 Bismarck Umpires Field Clinic 16th Street Diamonds 6:00 Wolf • Heilman/ Solitude/ Future East, 3rd place) May 2 Bismarck Umpires Field Clinic 16th Street Diamonds 6:00 Wolf Builders, Minot (Rec 2 West, 3rd • Hunter Merchants (Rec 4 East, May 3 Fargo Umpires Test Night Bowler 7:00 Cole/Pennick place) 4th place) May 3 Bismarck Umpires Field Clinic 16th Street Diamonds 6:00 Wolf • Blarney Stone, Fargo (Mc- • Town & Country Realty, Fargo May 3 Grand Forks Umpires Public Library Conf. Room #1 7:00 Payne Quades, 2nd place) (Rec 4 East, Cons. Champ) May 14 Bismarck Umpires Test Night/Pizza St. Mary’s Grade School 8:30 Wolf • Mobile Ads/ Rio Lawn & • Spicy Pie, Grand Forks (Rec 4 ***** Williston—Contact Darin Krueger To Register 701-774-9773 Ext. 238 TBA Krueger Landscape, Mandan (McQuades, East, Consolation Runner-up) TBA Grand Forks Managers TBA TBA Payne 2nd place) • Precision Underground, Bis- TBA Casselton Summer Fastpitch Umpires TBA TBA Rader • Lisbon Lasers (Rec 1 challenge, marck (Rec 4 West, 1st place) TBA West Fargo Summer Fastpitch Umpires TBA TBA Rader 2 wins) • Veracity Motors, Mandan (Rec TBA Bismarck Summer Fastpitch Umpires TBA TBA Gerhardt • JB Brothers LLC/ Weatherford, 4 West, 2nd place) TBA Grand Forks Summer Fastpitch Umpires TBA TBA Rader Williston (Rec 1 challenge, 4 wins) • George’s Tire, Dickinson (Rec To Men’s Rec 2 4 West, 3rd place) *****Please note that before or after all of the manager’s clinics and before or after most of the fi eld clinics, •Bar 9/ Bell Bank, Moorhead teams will be able to get stickers put on their bats and have their bats checked to make sure they are legal. If • Primier Physical Therapy, Mi- not (Rec 3 West, 1st place) (McQuades, 2nd place) you want to get bats stickered, please bring them before or after the clinics end so as not to interrupt the fi eld • Southgate/ Grand Sky, Grand or rules clinics. If you have questions concerning stickers or rules clinics in general, please contact UIC Mike • Hometown Moving/ Jeremy Dockter Construction, Bismarck Forks (Rec 3 East challenge, 2 Wolf at 400-2100 or contact your regional DUIC. For phone numbers for all regional DUIC’s log on to www. wins) usasoftballnd.org and click on the “Umpires” link. (Rec 3 West, 2nd place) • Alibi’s Lounge/ Union Bank/ • Lingerwood Merchants (Rec 3 Hazen Bottle Shop, Beulah (Rec 3 East challenge, 2 wins) West, 3rd place) • Hugo’s Wine & Spirits, James- USA Softball of North Dakota town (Rec 3 East challenge, 2 wins) 2018 Suspension/ Probation List Women’s Teams To Women’s C West, 1st place) • Bases and Banks, Minot (Class • Buster’s Bar/ Rockpile, Wil- Player Violation/Penalty D, 1st place) liston (Rec 3 West, 2nd place) To Women’s D • Katie Kulzer, Bismarck (Rec 3 Dominic Pardino Jr. Unsportsmanlike Conduct West, 3rd place) • Corral Bar/ Ramada, Bismarck Fargo Suspended Indefi nitely/ two years probatiion follows reinstatement • Solitude, Minot (Rec 3 West, (Rec 1, 1st place) Roughrider Champion) • Rookies, West Fargo (Rec 1, Mike Albrecht Unsportsmanlike Conduct • Broken Drum, Grand Forks 1st place) Jamestown Suspended indefi nitely. Can request reinstatement Jan. 1, 2017; (Classifi cation meeting) must be approved by the Jamestown Softball Association. To Women’s Rec 1 • Hideaway, Bismarck (classifi - • Silver Dollar MFI, West Fargo cation meeting) Daryl Burckhard Illegal Participation (Rec 2, 1st place) • Our Place Tavern, Bismarck Minot Suspended until July 1, 2017; Probation in 2017 & 2018 • Mulligans, Williston (Rec 2, (classifi cation meeting) 2nd place) • Railway Credit Union, Bis- • KCs Krushers, Jamestown (Rec marck (classifi cation meeting) 2, 3rd place) • Stadium Lodge, Bismarck State Tournament No-Show without Notifi cation • O’Brians (McNamara), Bis- (classifi cation meeting) marck (classifi cation meeting) • Fried’s State Farm, Bismarck Entire team probation through 2018 To Women’s Rec 2 (classifi cation meeting) • Triix Customs, Grand Forks Hill Lounge/ Herds & Horns, Fargo - Men’s Slow Pitch Rec 3 East • Mayport Insurance/ Hub, Grand Traill (Rec 3 East, 1st place) (classifi cation meeting) Wonder Bar, Jamestown - Men’s Slow Pitch Rec 3 East • Plains Women, Mandan (Rec 3 Lunseth Plumbing & Heating/ Ground Round, Grand Forks - Men’s Slow Pitch Rec 3 East Wolding Trucking, Beulah - Men’s Slow Pitch Rec 4 West Town Hall Bar, West Fargo - Women’s Slow Pitch Rec 3 East Frontier Printing, Bismarck - Women’s Slow Pitch Rec 3 East

PROBATION: Player with no-show probation starts the 2018 season with 1 violation. The fi rst ejection from a game would be a two (2) game suspension. The second ejection from a game would be season ending suspension. Softball News Spring 2018 – 13 Mens 2018 Invitational Tournaments Sat, Apr 14 - Sat, Apr 14 Sat, Jun 09 - Sun, Jun 10 $195, $195, $195, $195, $195 37th Annual Miller Lite Fargo, Sam’s Early Sat, May 12 - Sat, May 12 Fargo Michelob Lite Mike Wolf 16 R2 - R4, 3 GG $100 6 Open; 8 R1 - R2, 8 R3 - R4, Minot, 27th Early Bird Money Tournament 1926 Billings Dr Terry Wallace 3GG $135 30 C - R4, 3GG $125 16 B -C, 24 D, 32 R1 - R2, Bismarck ND 58504 PO Box 446 Sam Martin Tom Landsiedel 16 R3, 16 R4, 3GG, 3GG, 400-2100 Devils Lake ND 58301 5235 50th Ave. S. 420 3rd Ave. SW 3GG, 4GG, 4GG Register online at www. 701-662-8243 Fargo, ND 58104 Minot, ND 58701 $240, $240, $215, $185, $185 mcquades.com [email protected] 701-367-4932 701-857-4730 Corey Richart [email protected] [email protected] 1310 6th St. NW Sat, Jul 07 - Sun, Jul 08 Sat, Jul 21 - Sun, Jul 22 West Fargo, ND 58078 Grand Forks, July Classic Minot, 48th State Fair Sat, Apr 21 - Sat, Apr 21 Sat, May 12 - Sun, May 13 701-371-2914 8 C - D, 8 R1, 8 R2, 8 R3, 60 C-R4, 3GG $125 Fargo, Johns Early Bird Fargo 8 R4, 3 GG $175 Tom Landsiedel 6 Open, 8 R1 - R2, 8 R3 - R4, 8 C-D, 6 R1 , 6 R2, 6 R3, 6 R4, Sat, Jun 09 - Sun, Jun 10 Chris Hutton 420 3rd Ave. SW 3GG $135 5GG $240 Center, Old Settlers Grand Forks Softball Assn. Minot, ND 58701 John Dehaan Nick Gulmon 5 R1 - R2 , 16 R3 - R4, 9549 DeMers Avenue 701-857-4730 5504 47th Ave. S. 933 Ashley Drive W 4 GG $150 Grand Forks, ND 58201 [email protected] Fargo, ND 58104 West Fargo, ND 58078 J D Hanson 701-330-5798 701-741-5101 701-866-0460 Box 1836 [email protected] Sat, Jul 21 - Sat, Jul 21 [email protected] Center, ND 58530 Lisbon; 8 R1 - R2, 8 R3- R4, Sat, May 19 - Sun, May 20 701-794-8891 Sat, Jul 07 - Sun, Jul 08 3GG, DE $120 Sat, Apr 21 - Sun, Apr 22 Bismarck, Whirly Bird [email protected] Rugby Geographical Center Brad Dahl Jamestown, Spring Fling 12 C-D, 12 R1 - R2, 12 R3 - R4, 12 R2 - R4, 5GG $130 204 Bluff Street 8 R1 - R2, 8 R3- R4, 4GG $210 Sat, Jun 16 - Sun, Jun 17 Mark Hamilton Ft. Ransom, ND 58033 3GG, $125 Scott Kinnischtzke Williston, Play Ball 1116 Main Ave S [email protected] Gary Schmidt 4250 Calahan Place 6 C - D, 6 R1, 6 R2 - R3, Rugby ND 58368 1710 2nd Pl. NE Bismarck, ND 58504 5GG $150 701-208-1373 Sat, Aug 25 - Sun, Aug 26 Jamestown, ND 58401 701-527-5538 Darin Krueger [email protected] Fargo, Can-Am 701-659-1744 [email protected] PO Box 1153 16 R3, 16 R4, RR $175 garysffl [email protected] Williston, ND 58802 Sun, Jul 08 - Sun, Jul 08 Greg Laff en Sat, May 19 - Sun, May 20 701-774-9773 Bismarck 3813 17th St. S. Sun, Apr 29 - Sun, Apr 29 Jamestown, One Pitch Wonder [email protected] 8 C - D, 8 R1 - R2, 8 R3 - R4 Fargo, ND 58103 West Fargo 12 Open, 3GG $125 3GG $175 701-306-3813 16 R2-R4, 3GG, $100 Gary Schmidt Sat, Jun 16 - Sat, Jun 16 Scott Kinnischtzke greg@laff en.org Rod Olson 1710 2nd Pl. NE Mandan 4250 Calahan Place PO Box 42 Jamestown, ND 58401 12 R1 - R2, 12 R3 - R4, Bismarck ND 58504 Sat, Aug 25 - Sun, Aug 26 Mapleton, ND 58059 701-659-1744 3GG $150 701-527-5538 Center, Sheldon Rud Memorial 701-799-0588 garysffl eague@yahoo. com J D Hanson [email protected] 8 D - R1, 8 R2 - R3, 5 R4, [email protected] Box 1836 4 GG $150 Fri, Jun 01 - Sun, Jun 03 Center, ND 58530 Fri, Jul 13 - Fri, Jul 13 J D Hanson Sat, May 05 - Sat, May 05 Mandan Rugrat 701-794-8891 Wahpeton, Summer Classic Box 1836 Mandan, Early Bird 8 C - D, 8 R1, 8 R2, 16 R3, [email protected] 8 R3 - R4, 3GG $125 Center ND 58530 5 B - C, 8 D, 8 R1 - R2, 16 R4, 3GG $150 Laree Bumgarner 701-794-8891 8 R3 - R4, 3GG $150 Cody Clark Sat, Jun 16 - Sat, Jun 16 304 5th St S [email protected] J D Hanson 8010 Northwood Drive Devils Lake Wahpeton ND 58075 Box 1836 Bismarck, ND 58503 32nd Annual Budweiser 701-642-2811 Fri, Sep 07 - Sun, Sep 09 Center, ND 58530 701-390-0024 16 R2 - R4, 3GG $100 [email protected] United Tribes Legends 701-794-8891 [email protected] Terry Wallace 24 R1 & above, 24 R2 & below, [email protected] PO Box 446 Sat, Jul 14 - Sun, Jul 15 3GG $275 Sat, Jun 02 - Sun, Jun 03 Devils Lake, ND 58301 Dickinson, Miller Lite Steve Shepherd Sat, May 05 - Sat, May 05 Grand Forks, BWW Early Bird 701-662-8243 5 D, 6 R1, 6 R2, 16 R3, 12 R4 United Tribes Tech. College Williston, 1st Annual 5X5X5 8 C - D, 8 R1, 8 R2, 8 R3, [email protected] 3GG $160 3315 Univerity Dr. 8 C - R1, 8 R2 - R3, 8 R4, 3 GG $175 Ryan Nelson Bismarck, ND 58504 5GG $100 Chris Hutton Sat, Jun 16 - Sat, Jun 16 2004 Fairway St 701-226-3987 Darin Krueger Grand Forks Softball Assn. Bismarck Dickinson ND 58601 [email protected] PO Box 1153 9549 DeMers Avenue 12 B - D, 3GG, RR $175 701-495-0025 Williston, ND 58802 Grand Forks, ND 58201 Scott Kinnischtzke [email protected] Sun, Sep 09 - Sun, Sep 09 701-774-9773 701-330-5798 4250 Calahan Place Dickinson, Last Chance [email protected] [email protected] Bismarck ND 58504 Sat, Jul 14 - Sun, Jul 15 5 R1 - R2, 16 R3 - R4, 701-527-5538 Oakes, Lite Bat 3GG $140 Sun, May 06 - Sun, May 06 Sat, Jun 02 - Sat, Jun 02 [email protected] 16 R2 - R4, 3GG $120 Ryan Nelson Wahpeton, Spring Classic Wahpeton, Blue Goose Bob Ubben 2004 Fairway St 5 R1 - R2, 5 R3 - R4, 8 R3-R4, DE $125 Fri, Jun 22 - Sun, Jun 24 210 S. 7th St. Dickinson ND 58601 RR $125 Laree Bumgarner Bismarck-Mandan Oakes ND 58474 701-495-0025 Laree Bumgarner 304 5th St S McQuade Charity Softball 701-742-2087 | 701-388-3083 [email protected] 304 5th St S Wahpeton, ND 58075 6 A-B, 24 C; 32 D, 32 R1; 48 [email protected] Wahpeton, ND 58075 701-642-2811 R2; 128 R3, 48 R4; 24 M35; Tourney Series Total 701-642-2811 [email protected] 8 M50, 4 M60; DE, DE, CC, Sat, Jul 14 - Sat, Jul 14 # of Teams Total [email protected] CC, CC, CC, CC; $260, $260, Devils Lake, Weekend Only Total Coed 2018 Invitational Junior Olympics 2018 Invitational Tournaments Sat, Jun 09 - Sun, Jun 10 Sat, Jun 16 - Sun, Jun 17 Fri, Jul 06 - Sun, Jul 08 Tournaments Bismarck, Blast Grand Forks, Express - All Ages Fargo Moorhead, Red River Rage Sat, Jun 02 - Sun, Jun 03 9549 DeMers Avenue Open, RR/C&C $275 3GG $150 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 18U, Grand Forks, BWW EarlyBird Grand Forks, ND 58201 Bill Schmidt Terry Bohan TBA $300 8 Open, 3GG $100 701-330-5798 3600 Downing Street 3240 Royal Drive Mike Skogan Chris Hutton [email protected] Bismarck, ND 58504 Grand Forks, ND 58201 4942 10th Avenue South Grand Forks Softball Assn. 701-226-8487 701-215-2599 Fargo, ND 58103 9549 DeMers Avenue Sat, Aug 25 - Sun, Aug 26 [email protected] tbohan0502mygfschools.org 701-866-2959 Grand Forks, ND 58201 Jamestown, Scott Schafer [email protected] 701-330-5798 Memorial Fri, Jun 15 - Sat, Jun 16 Sat, Jun 16 - Sun, Jun 17 [email protected] 16 Open, DE $125 Jamestown Minot, Storm Fri, Jul 06 - Fri, Jul 06 Gary Schmidt 4 - 12U, RR $85 10U, 12U, 14U, 18U, 4GG $275 Jamestown Sat, Jul 07 - Sun, Jul 08 1710 2nd PL. NE Tina Mikkelson Thor Nelson 4 - 10U, RR $85 Grand Forks July, Classic Jamestown, ND 58401 1622 15th St. SW 821 1st Avenue SE Tina Mikkelson 8 Open, 3GG $100 701-659-1744 Jamestown, ND 58401 Minot, ND 58701 1622 15th St. SW Chris Hutton garysffl [email protected] [email protected] 701-240-8467 Jamestown, ND 58401 Grand Forks Softball Assn. 701-320-1218 [email protected] [email protected] 9549 DeMers Avenue Sun, Sep 16 - Sun, Sep 16 701-320-1218 Grand Forks, ND 58201 Grand Forks, Renae Thompson Sat, Jun 16 - Sun, Jun 17 Fri, Jun 22 - Fri, Jun 22 701-330-5798 16 Open, 3GG $150 West Fargo, United Jamestown Fri, Aug 10 - Sun, Aug 12 [email protected] Chris Hutton 10U, 12U, 14U, 18U, RR/3GG, 4 - 14U, RR $85 Jamestown, Can-am Grand Forks Softball Assn. TBA Tina Mikkelson 6 - 14U, 6 - 16U, 3GG $200 Sat, Aug 25 - Sun, Aug 26 9549 DeMers Avenue Pat Johnson 1622 15th St. SW Tina Mikkelson Grand Forks, All-Nighter Grand Forks, ND 58201 5152 8th Ave. S. Jamestown, ND 58401 1622 15th St. SW 16 Open, 3GG $175 701-330-5798 Fargo, ND 58103 [email protected] Jamestown, ND 58401 Chris Hutton [email protected] 701-412-5209 701-320-1218 [email protected] Grand Forks Softball Assn. [email protected] 701-320-1218 14 – Softball News Spring 2018 Womens 2018 Invitational Tournaments Sat, Apr 28 - Sat, Apr 28 6 D - R1, 6 R2 - R3, RR $100 West Fargo, ND 58078 Bismarck ND 58504 [email protected] West Fargo Cody Remboldt 701-371-2914 400-2100 5 C - R1, 5 R2 - R3, RR $130 32 Eckelson Road [email protected] Register online www.mcquades.com Sat, Jul 21 - Sun, Jul 22 Rod Olson Lincoln, ND 58504 Minot, 48th State Fair PO Box 42 701-391-6585 Sat, Jun 16 - Sun, Jun 17 Sat, Jul 07 - Sun, Jul 08 30 C - R3, 3GG $125 Mapleton, ND 58059 [email protected] Williston, Play Ball Grand Forks, July Classic Tom Landsiedel 701-799-0588 6 D -R1, 6 R2 -R4, 5GG $150 8 C - R1, 8 R2-R3, 3GG $175 420 3rd Ave. SW 701-235-4441 Fri, Jun 01 - Sun, Jun 03 Darin Krueger Chris Hutton Minot, ND 58701 [email protected] Mandan, Rugrat PO Box 1153 Grand Forks Softball Assn. 701-857-4730 6 D - R1, 12 R2 - R3, 3GG $150 Williston, ND 58802 9549 DeMers Avenue [email protected] Sat, May 05 - Sat, May 05 Cody Clark 701-774-9773 Grand Forks, ND 58201 Williston, 1st Annual 5X5X5 8010 Northwood Drive [email protected] 701-330-5798 Fri, Sep 07 - Sun, Sep 09 8 D - R1, 8 R2 - R3 5GG $100 Bismarck, ND 58503 [email protected] United Tribes Legends Darin Krueger 701-390-0024 Sat, Jun 16 - Sat, Jun 16 12 R1 and above, 12 R2 and PO Box 1153 [email protected] Devils Lake Sat, Jul 14 - Sun, Jul 15 below, 3GG $275 Williston, ND 58802 32nd Annual Budweiser Dickinson, Miller Lite Steve Shepherd 701-774-9773 Sat, Jun 02 - Sun, Jun 03 8 R1 - R3, 3GG $100 6 R1 - R2, 6 R3, 3GG $140 United Tribes Tech College [email protected] Grand Forks, BWW Earlybird Terry Wallace Ryan Nelson 3315 University Drive 8 C - R1, 8 R2-R3, 3GG $175 PO Box 446 2004 Fairway St. Bismarck, ND 58504 Sat, May 12 - Sun, May 13 Chris Hutton Devils Lake ND 58301 Dickinson, ND 58601 701-226-3987 Fargo Grand Forks Softball Assn. 701-662-8243 701-495-0025 [email protected] 6C, 6 D, 6 R1, 6 R2, 6 R3, 6 R4 9549 DeMers Avenue [email protected] [email protected] 3GG $135 Grand Forks, ND 58201 Sun, Sep 09 - Sun, Sep 09 Dori Amundson 701-330-5798 Fri, Jun 22 - Sun, Jun 24 Sat, Jul 14 - Sat, Jul 14 Dickinson, Last Chance 4423 Newport Lane [email protected] Bismarck-Mandan Devils Lake 6 R2 - R3, 3GG $140 West Fargo, ND 58078 McQuade Charity Softball 37th Annual Miller Lite Ryan Nelson 701-789-1043 Sat, Jun 09 - Sun, Jun 10 16 C, 16 D, 24 R1, 32 R2, 40 8 R1 - R3, 3GG $100 2004 Fairway St [email protected] Fargo, Michelob Golden R3, DE, DE, CC, CC, CC Terry Wallace Dickinson ND 58601 6 D - R1, 6 R2 - R3, 4GG $175 $260, $260, $195, $195, $195 PO Box 446 701-495-0025 Sat, May 19 - Sat, May 19 Corey Richart Mike Wolf Devils Lake ND 58301 [email protected] Bismarck, Early Bird 1310 6th St. NW 1926 Billings Dr 701-662-8243 February 2017 Plays and Clarifi cations 2017 Biennial UIC Clinic plished in the next several weeks. those plans have already started told them after they completed tion of the umpire F1 is now in the We would not have had such a with Committee Chair Jim Craig their time at bat does not matter. game with no penalty. The pitch is The 2017 Biennial UIC Clinic successful event without the hard and whoever he chooses as his We say this is a game management considered in the case of an appeal was a resounding success. We had work and dedication of the Chair- committee members. All comments situation at its best because of the meaning that was the appeal before 480 attendees from all over USA man of the UIC Clinic Commit- and suggestions are welcome which plate umpire recognized that the or after a pitch. This is not an appeal Softball. The feedback via phone tee Jim Craig and his committee will only make clinics of the future defensive team called time fi rst and it is a protest. The act of F1 making calls, emails, and text messages Deputy Director, Christina Drumm, better. approached the plate umpire with a pitch is not making a play. Rule have been all positive. Each in- Region 5 Umpire-in-Chief Jim From the USA Softball Umpire their protest. We should not allow 4, Section 6C8 volvement of the attendees in their Ballengee. Their hard work on the Program, we say thank you and let’s the off ensive to now take over the PLAY: (FP Only) Team A in sessions. Their ability to get the format and subject matter made make 2019 even better and stronger. conversation. In this play it appears bracket play (not in pool play) point across, teach the attendees the clinic a success. The ability to that the defensive coach has begun presents a lineup to the home plate something, and involve them in the Registration and “think outside the box” on what Background Checks to come out of the dugout but has umpire with nine batters with de- session was outstanding. Both Jim shoud be taught, how it should not requested time to protest so the fensive positions and a tenth batter Craig and I attended the sessions be taught and who should teach it It is time for all umpires to substitution of the player by the of- listed as an EP. The plate umpire and agreed they all were very well added greatly to the clinic being one begin the process of becoming a fense would now put Davis legally either doesn’t notice it or accepts it planned and delivered. of the best we have ever had. registered USA Softball Umpire. in the game. Rule 4, Section 6B telling them that they can’t use an The Clinic started with an ad- We must also thank our sponsor Remember all umpires assigned and Rule 4, Section 6C [3] EP in bracket play. There is no DP/ dress to the attendees by the Presi- Bollinger Insurance. Without the to Junior Olympic Championship PLAY: (FP Only) With one out Flex listed; only nine batters and a dent of USA Softball, Warren support of our insurance partner Play and or assigned as an umpire and R1 on 3B and R2 on 1B, B4 hits tenth batter as EP. If the off ending Jones. To have our Executive we would not be able to hold such to any event to be held at ASA a fl y ball to deep center fi eld, which team appeals, is the tenth batter an Director, Craig Cress, address the an event. We also send a shout Hall of Fame Stadium must be is caught for the second out. R1 on illegal player or just unreported/ group from Belgrade, Serbia via out to USA Softball Properties for background checked through the 3B tags up and scores. R2 did not batting out of order? Skype only added to the excitement their gracious donation in support USA Softball background check tag, but advanced to 2B. After F1 RULING: This should never already in the house. The session of the clinic which was greatly system. Please address this with has the ball back in their possession happen as the plate umpire should with NCAA, NFHS and USA appreciated. However, without the yout Local Association and make with both feet within the pitcher’s check the lineup thoroughly and not Softball was a resounding success. attendance of the Umpire-in-Chiefs sure this is accomplished in order circle, the fi rst base coach tells R2 start play until they receive a legal The feedback on the presentation and their staff s from the Local As- for your umpires to participate in to come back to 1B, because they lineup, even if the coach insists. by the participants was “Great Job”. sociatios and you the umpires, this these events. did not tag up. R2 retreats to 1B However if the EP bats and is listed Donna Vavrinec from the NCAA event cannot happen and would not Plays and Clarifi cations while F1 has the ball in the circle. in the tenth spot we would say they and Sandy Searcy from the NFHS be a success. The umpire calls R2 out for viola- are a substitute for the person in did an excellent job passing along We would be remiss if we did PLAY: Unreported substitute tion of the Look Back Rule. the 1st batting position and would not only their ideas on umpire not thank the National Offi ce Staff . Davis singles and is standing on RULING: R1 had scored before be called an unreported substitute. training but also on the diff erences Special thanks to all of them for 1B when the ball is returned to the R2 is called out for the third out, If the person now in the 1st posi- between NCAA, NFHS and USA putting forth the eff ort to help make infi eld. The defense requests time therefore the run counts. Rule 5, tion bats in the second position Softball. The questions asked from the clinic a success. They spent and the defensive manager, who Section 5B [2] they would have to be considered the crowd were engaging, interest- countless hours working to help us was waiting for Davis to complete PLAY: F1 is an unreported sub- an illegal reentry since they were ing and all about the betterment of welcome all attendees, market the their turn at bat, begins to come stitute with B1 at bat with 1-2 count. out when the supposed EP batted softball. Thank you to all of those product we presented and reward out of the dugout to protest the un- B1 hits the ball to F6, who throws in the 1st spot and now are batting who asked questions. There were those who deserved it on Saturday reported and should be called out. to F3 to retire B1. The off ensive in the second position making this several questions that time did not night. Thank you to all of you. RULING: This is a game man- coach wants to protest F1 for being an illegal reentry. This all depends allow us to get to. Those will be We now need all of those who agement situation at its best. By rule unreported. on if the off ended team brings the sent to all panel members for their attended the clinic to send in your as soon as the off ensive coach tells RULING: In this case the unre- issue to the attention of the umpire response and their answers will be comments on the survey so that the plate umpire that their substitute ported substitute, F1 did not make before a pitch to a legal player. Rule posted on our Plays and Clarifi ca- we can make 2019 even better. I is in the game that person is legally a play. Since F1 did not make the 4, Section 5 and Rule 4, Section tions. We hope to have this accom- realize it seems a long time off but in the game. The fact that the coach play and it is brought to the atten- 6A-C, Rule 6, Section 6F. Contact Information USA Softball of North Dakota State Offi ce Telephone: (701) 952-4448 Email: StateOffi [email protected] Website: www.USASoftballND.com Awards & PlaquesSoftball News Spring 2018 – 15

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Chris Hutton above and below

Josh Wege

Greg Reynolds

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