Jamshedpur: A four-day softball coach and umpire seminar was organized at Upgraded Madhya Vidyalaya, Kuda Tiruldih in Seraikela district. The event was jointly conducted by the Jharkhand Softball Association and District Softball Association Seraikela with the aim of promoting softball across the state.
Participants from 12 districts, including Hazaribagh, Dhanbad, Godda, East Singhbhum, Bokaro, Seraikela-Kharsawan, and Ranchi, took part in the seminar. Renowned umpire from West Bengal, Amit Kumar Mandal, served as the technical expert and trained attendees in the nuances of coaching and officiating in softball. A test was conducted at the end of the training, and successful candidates were awarded certificates.
The closing ceremony saw the presence of several dignitaries, including Chief Guest Ravishankar Sharma, teachers Laxman Mahato and Khelaram Bedia, All India Small and Medium Media Association Secretary Santosh Kumar, Jharkhand Softball Association Secretary Balram Kumar Tanti, Organizing Committee Secretary Premashish Mahato, trainer Damodar Jamuda, and others.
Addressing the gathering, Balram Kumar Tanti stated that while softball is relatively new in Jharkhand, it is recognized by the Indian Olympic Association. The seminar aimed to train coaches and umpires who will promote the sport in their respective districts. He added that some of the trained individuals will also officiate in future softball tournaments. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Premashish Mahato, who expressed gratitude to all participants and guests.
