| Dean McNew, who overcame childhood blindness to become a standout athlete and veteran umpire, was inducted into the United States Slo-Pitch Softball Association Hall of Fame in the Umpire Category. A native of West Virginia, McNew established residence in Virginia in 1973 and became Tri-City Area Umpire-In-Chief, a position he held for three years. In 1997, McNew was appointed Massachusetts State Umpire-In-Chief until 1979 at which time he became the USSSA Massachusetts Sate Director. In 1980, McNew was appointed USSSA Regional Vice-President in charge of the New England States. McNew served as a member of the National Playing Rules Committee from 1975-1980. He has conducted umpire clinics throughout the New England States and on four difference occasions he conducted the USSSA National Umpires Clinic. McNew umpired in two divisional tournaments and eight world tournaments, including the 1976 Major World Series. The outstanding official was rated the top Virginia Umpire from 1973-76 and the Top Massachusetts Umpire from 1977-1981. McNew's outstanding performance has been instrumental in developing a string and efficient umpires program in New England. His efforts will be felt for many years to come. |