News

Softball NSW Announces Deputy Director Umpiring Appointments

Published Tue 12 May 2026

 

Softball NSW is pleased to announce the appointment of three Deputy Director Umpiring roles, marking an important step forward in strengthening the leadership, capability, and future of umpiring across the state. 

Following a comprehensive process aligned to the evolving umpire operating model, the following appointments have been confirmed for an initial two-year term: 

  • Deputy Director Umpire Operations – Jess Morley and Leanne Gearside 

  • Deputy Director Umpire Development – Joel Grimes 

  • Deputy Director Umpire Projects – David Crowe 

These roles form a critical part of the contemporary umpire leadership structure, designed to enhance governance, create clearer pathways, and support a more connected and sustainable umpiring community across New South Wales. The two-year appointments provide both stability and renewal within the leadership model, ensuring ongoing development and fresh perspectives as the program continues to evolve.  

Working closely with State Director of Umpiring, Krissi Travers, the Deputy Directors will lead across key focus areas including operations, development pathways, and strategic projects. Collectively, they will play a pivotal role in delivering enhanced support to associations, driving participation, and uplifting the standard of umpiring across all levels of the game. 

State Director of Umpiring, Krissi Travers, welcomed the appointments and highlighted the importance of these roles in shaping the future of umpiring in the state: 

I’m really looking forward to working closely with Jess, Leanne, Joel and David as we continue to build a stronger, more connected umpiring community across New South Wales. Each of them brings a depth of experience and a genuine passion for developing others, which will be critical as we focus on growing participation, strengthening our pathways, and supporting umpires at every stage of their journey.” 

“This is an exciting opportunity for us to build real momentuminvesting in development, improving consistency and capability, and creating an environment where umpires feel supported, challenged, and inspired to progress. Together, we have a clear focus on bolstering umpiring across the state and ensuring it continues to thrive into the future.” 

These appointments reflect Softball NSW’s ongoing commitment to investing in umpire development and creating clear, accessible pathways for officials across the state. By strengthening leadership capability and aligning efforts across operations, development, and strategic initiatives, the organisation is well positioned to support both current and emerging umpires. 

Softball NSW congratulates Jess, Leanne, Joel and David on their appointments and looks forward to the positive impact they will have in their respective roles over the coming years. 

 


Gallery