NEWSLINE STORY

published March - April 2017

 

Ready…Set…Take Action as a Member of the NHPA!

by Bill Marvin, 5th Vice President and Regional Director and Court Sanctioning Director

 

We have just returned from the annual Executive Council meeting.  The discussions covered a myriad of topics and issues that are of concern to the NHPA.  It is an opportunity to share ideas and possible solutions to the challenges that currently face our organization.   The Council is dedicated to the task of not only increasing membership, but taking actions that will improve the way the NHPA functions day to day.  These ideas will be shared in future articles in the Newsline, and action items will be presented at the Convention held in St. George.

 

There are a couple of discussion items that directly involve member participation.  The topic of promotion of our sport is always first and foremost.  One method under consideration is documenting the World Tournament.  Footage not only of the best pitchers, but candid shots of all classes including juniors and cadets, scenes of families in attendance, and a montage of the spectators enjoying the competition as well as each other’s company.  How can you help?  We are in need of a cameraperson to not only take charge of the camera but to edit the film to produce a finished product.  If you are interested in taking on this project, contact Dave Sidles, NHPA Secretary/Treasurer.

 

Pitchers who have attended past World Tournaments know that one of the challenges for each shift is recruiting judges.  There always seems to be a reluctance to come forward and accept this responsibility.  At the same time, pitchers are expecting judges to be in place and enforce rules as appropriate.  Judging clinics are held at various times to explain the role of judges and how to perform this very important duty.  I am encouraging everyone to step up and assume this very important task.  As a bonus, judges are paid for each shift they work.  Your participation is vital to keep the tournament moving and keep on schedule.

 

During the World Tournament, there is a meeting of Charter Officers and Regional Directors.  Discussions cover a multitude of topics from how to keep the current members of the NHPA and bring in new pitchers, to the nuts and bolts of day-to-day operations of a Charter.  This free exchange of information can be helpful to new and experienced officers, and provide the Regional Directors directions on how to best assist their Charter.  I would encourage at least one member of each Charter make it a point to be a part of this meeting.

 

I would appreciate any suggestion for future articles.  My email address is NHPA5THVP@AOL.COM and would love to hear from you.

 

Easy does it.