Dave DeMerchant of Presque Isle recently umpired in the 12U National Girls’ Fastpitch Tournament in Salem, Va., which featured 57 teams from across the United States.
A 33-year veteran of softball umpiring, DeMerchant was one of 41 from the nation selected to work and the only one from Maine.
He umpired in the 14U national girls’ tourney in 2015 and has one previous national event under his belt, having worked the Men’s Class C Slo-Pitch Nationals in Florida in 1997.
DeMerchant recently received his ratings from national headquarters in Oklahoma City, Okla. A score of 60 is perfect and he received a 55, which he said will move him up a level for next year.
“It’s fun to meet other umpires from around the country,” DeMerchant said, “and see how you compare. When you get done, you end up with lots of friends from all over.”
While in Salem, DeMerchant attended a minor league baseball game involving the Red Sox Class A affiliate. He also had an opportunity to tour the nearby city of Roanoke.
