Jose Ricardo Rodriguez teaches mechanics practices on the field to the umpire clinic attendees. (Photo courtesy of Nicaragua Softball Federation)

NICARAGUA HOSTED UMPIRING COURSE
2009-12-11

Nicaragua Softball Federation President Roberto Espinoza is leaving no stone unturned in advancing the sport in his country. The leader of softball in that Central American nation recently organized the second national umpire clinic. Held at the Nicaragua Sport Institute in Managua, the event attracted attendees from throughout the country.

Instructors Jose Ricardo Rodriguez, an ISF/international umpire from Nicaragua, and Nicaragua Softball Federation Secretary General Bayardo Palacio covered the rules of 2006-2009 and taught the basics of fast pitch as well as the mechanics of the three- and four-umpire system. The clinic had an evaluation of 100 questions and also practical evaluation in a game. At the conclusion of the four-day session the umpires received a certificate of participation.

Mr. Espinoza said that the umpires showed a great interest to learn and that the instructors and the federation felt they approached the goal they’d set.

With the initial national umpiring clinic having taken place in 2008 and this recent edition having been a success, plans are to conduct the event on an annual basis.

The National Olympic Committee of Nicaragua recently appointed Mr. Espinoza to represent their country as the Chef de Mission for the upcoming 9th Central American Games in Panama (in March).