Fourteen members of the ESF’s Technical Commission met in London during the weekend of May 29-31.

The meeting, which was chaired by ESF Technical Director Bob Milosavljević and also attended by President Van Overbeek, provided an opportunity for Technical Commissioners and Umpire Commissioners to review and discuss a number of policies and procedures that have evolved and changed over the past several years, including bat control, ID control, player eligibility and pick-up player regulations, and dealing with increased unsportsmanlike conduct and disciplinary matters.

The meeting concluded with a demonstration of new software and Web tools that will simplify the tasks of assigning umpires during competitions and updating the ESF web site with game results and tournament standings.

From left to right. Front row: Rob Kerkman, Gilbert Tobback, Chiqui Vázquez, Lis Castro, Eddy Van Straelen, Marlies Struyve, Duncan McLean, Mike Jennings. Behind: Gabriel Waage, Bert Loggen, Andre Van Overbeek, Tony Ilegemns, Maurizio Ronchi, Bob Milosavljevic, Joeri Tobback

In addition, there were separate discussions regarding proposed changes to the structure and format of European Championships and slow-pitch competitions, as well as a meeting of the ESF’s umpire administration staff to discuss changes in umpire mechanics and a plan to mirror the ESF’s Development initiative by moving forward with creation of a regional structure for supporting the domestic umpiring needs of our member Federations.

Details of the weekend’s discussions and findings will be published here in the coming weeks.