History

The East Penn PIAA Softball Umpires Association was first established in 1974 serving the following schools: Easton, Emmaus, Palisades, Saucon Valley, Southern Lehigh and Wilson. As other high school programs were established between 1974 and 1981, the association membership grew to around 40 umpires.

Between 1974 to 1976, the current leagues of the Colonial League, Lehigh Valley Conference (formerly East Penn Conference), and Mountain Valley Conference (formerly Centennial League) were established. The association currently services these leagues in addition to some independent schools and middle schools in the Lehigh Valley area.

Robert M. Walsh was instrumental in establishing the E.P. PIAA S.U.A. He was the original high school assignor for the Lehigh Valley. He served in this position until his passing in November of 1999. He also served as interpreter, secretary and treasurer for the organization. Other individuals serving the group included Alex Kaslik and John Tracy (secretary), Joe Busolits (vice president) and Luke Kemmerer (president). Past interpreters include Robert Walsh, Carl "Sneezy" Snyder, Don Saul and Bob Roth. The first meeting of the E.P. PIAA S.U.A. was held on December 4, 1974.

The organization held an annual Girls High School Softball Classic (for varsity) starting in May of 1977 and continued it until 1984. The tournament was established to help develope girls high school softball and to allow participation against teams that otherwise would not compete against each other. The first tournament featured five teams and was won by Quakertown High School. Minersville High School was a three time winner of the event from 1979 thru 1981.

Starting in 1984, the association supplied umpires to the annual Carol Weil Scholarship Fund H.S. All Star Game(s) which were usually held at the conclusion of the state playoffs. The games were played at Patriots Park in Allentown.

In the 1990's, membership grew to almost 100 members. During the off seas on of 2000, some individuals were granted permission by the PIAA to break away and form another chapter in the valley. Our current membership is around 52 members.

Previous meeting locations included Stehley's Cellarette, The Lantern Restaurant, The Brass Rail Restaurant, Fullerton American Legion and Fountain Hill American Legion. Starting in 2001, the meetings were moved to Carmine's Restaurant in Allentown and in 2005 to East Side Youth Center.