Umpire enjoys over 30 years in softball
He has umpired in over 100 international games.
Although the underhand motion is used to pitch in softball, Softball South Africa umpire in chief and World Baseball and Softball Confederation (WBSC) regional coordinator for Africa, Vincent Maoeng, says underhand tactics are not tolerated in the sport.
With over 30 years of international experience behind the plate, the Crystal Park resident knows all too well about unscrupulous behaviour in sport.
He lists game control as an important aspect of umpiring. Above all, he said, an umpire should be fair, impartial and respect ballplayers on and off the field.
The 59-year old argues that there is no room for error when it comes to rules interpretation.
“Any calls made through judgement are not always welcome. One team will be happy and the other not.
“The accuracy of decision is important. Any decisions based on rules can be reversed. We do find those in a game and it doesn’t make you a bad umpire if you got the interpretation of the rule wrong,” he said.
Maoeng was born in Wattville. His passion for the game began at Tlakula High School, playing in the red dust of Kwa-Thema in Springs.
He started as a pitcher and later found a niche in umpiring. Since then, he has spent much of his time globe-trotting.
“I have umpired in over 100 international games. I also umpired in the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.
“I have umpired in four men’s and women’s world championships, and one All Africa Games and Confederation of University and College Sports Association games.
“I have been involved in regional qualifiers in Africa and Europe. I’ve also coordinated Olympic Games qualifiers in Asia and Oceania where Australia, New Zealand, China and Chinese Taipei fight it out for an Olympics spot.”
Now as an umpire in chief (UIC), he has swapped the plate shoes, chest protector, leg guards and dark blue umpire uniform for casual office attire.
“The UIC is responsible for running tournaments. We also coordinate the umpires and make sure the schedule is correct for the duration of the event.”
Also Read: Play golf for baseball and softball
The WBSC appointed Maoeng as regional umpire coordinator for Africa in 2017. He explained that part of his job includes the development and training of umpires on the continent.
“I coordinate the championships in Africa and in the world where the WBSC assigns me. I also report on African events to the federation and I assess the readiness of umpires to officiate at world and regional championships.
“I am one of the six coordinators in the world. We are responsible for rule changes and the management of the umpire programme.”
During his time traversing the world, Maoeng said he developed a knack for languages.
“I speak over eight international languages. It has made it easier to communicate with players and administrators on and off the field.”
The father of three has been working for mining explosives company AECI for 30 years. When asked how he’s managed to achieve so much in his life, he said: “Perseverance is the mother of success.”
In October, Maoeng will head down to Argentina to take charge of the WBSC u-23 World Cup.
Also Read: Tom Newby softball players make Ekurhuleni side
