Softball Canada is pleased to announce that six umpires have earned Level V certification after their outstanding performances at the 2022 Canadian Championships.
There are three new Slo-Pitch Level V umpires:
| NAME | HOMETOWN |
| Pat Chiquette | Saint-Hyacinthe, Que. |
| Jeff McKay | Brantford, Ont. |
| Shawn Miller | Duncan, B.C. |
The new Fast Pitch Level V umpires are:
| NAME | HOMETOWN |
| Audrey Desmarteaux-Houle | Ottawa, Ont. |
| Steve Gallagher | Cobourg, Ont. |
| Kearney O'Keefe | St. John's, N.L. |
Level V certification is the highest rung in Softball Canada’s domestic umpiring program and demands a combination of knowledge, understanding and abilities as an official that clearly demonstrates a high level of competency and situates them amongst a select group of officials in Canada and around the world. This certification makes each of them eligible to attend a WBSC umpire certification seminar to become internationally certified.
“Just like the players on our national teams, these six officials have dedicated years of learning and practice to reach this level. I am excited about the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for the class of 2022” states National Director of Umpires Jeff Whipple. “As a Level V umpire, it is expected they will now actively seek and accept additional leadership opportunities within their provincial and national programs.”
To be considered for a Level V appointment, an umpire must be a fully certified Level IV, have a proven track record of leadership in the program, attended a qualifying event and have a highly successful performance at the Men’s or Women’s Fast Pitch or Slo-Pitch Canadian Championship.
