Ottawa, Ont. - Softball Canada and the Officials Development Committee are pleased to announce those umpires who were successful in achieving their Level V status this past summer at either the Men's Fast Pitch or the Women's/Men's Slo-Pitch Canadian Championships. Please join us in congratulating the following:
Two new Slo-Pitch Level V Umpires:
| NAME | PROVINCE/TERRITORY |
| JR Simpson | Saskatchewan |
| Carla MacKenzie | Nova Scotia |
Three new Fast Pitch Level V Umpires:
| NAME | PROVINCE/TERRITORY |
| Brian Riess | Ontario |
| Mark Taylor | Alberta |
| Gino Iannone | Quebec |
Level V certification represents the pinnacle of Softball Canada’s domestic umpiring program. Achieving this status requires a deep combination of knowledge, understanding, and skill, demonstrating exceptional competence as an official. With this certification, these umpires are now eligible to attend a WBSC umpire certification seminar, opening the door to international accreditation.
"Much like elite athletes, these five officials have devoted years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance to reach this level,' says Frankie Billingsley, National Director of Umpires. 'I’m excited for the unique journeys that lie ahead for each of them. As Level V umpires, they are now expected to embrace leadership roles within both their provincial and national programs".
