ISF Director of Umpiring passes away

The International Softball Federation has advised of the death of it's Director of Umpires, Merle Butler. Merle the leader of the ISF's umpiring programme since 1981, died suddenly at his home in Edmond, Oklahoma. Merle was 72 years old.

This unexpected news was received with great sadness by Softball New Zealand and more especially it's umpires. Merle was highly respected and made a significant contribution to the development of umpiring in New Zealand. Merle will be sadly missed by all.

More on Merle's distinguished career can be read here