THE Spring Games Umpire Spotlight

The Rising and Veteran Stars of NCAA Softball Umpiring: A Tribute to Five Standouts THE Spring Games Edition

In the ever-evolving world of collegiate softball, the game relies on far more than the talent between the baselines. Umpires—those guardians of integrity and consistency—serve as the sport’s silent backbone. At THE Spring Games and beyond, five standout umpires have not only upheld that responsibility, but exemplified growth, leadership, and excellence in the craft. This is a closer look at Jeremiah Tomasetti, Deb Goldpenny, Midge Scholl, Cathy Creighton, and Trey Gallardo—each with their own unique journey but united by their impact on the sport.

Jeremiah Tomasetti – A Lifelong Commitment to the Game

For Jeremiah Tomasetti, umpiring has been a calling since he was just 12 years old in 1999. By 14, he was already taking on ASA travel tournaments, and at 16, he stood on the field for his first national qualifier championship. His rapid rise and longevity have been matched by his consistent growth—from USA Softball National Tournaments to postseason college series.

In 2017, he reached a milestone, working the USA Softball National Tournament in York, PA—coinciding with his first collegiate season. Since then, he’s umpired postseason college events, returned to USA Nationals, and taken the plate for high-stakes winners bracket and “if-necessary” games. Most notably, in 2024, he was introduced into the ACC and umpired at Florida State University, then closed out the year by working the 18U USSSA Nationals final as crew chief. In 2025, he added district and regional championships at the JUCO DII level to his résumé. Tomasetti’s journey reflects a lifetime of commitment and continual elevation in the umpiring ranks.

Deb Goldpenny – A Hall of Fame Legacy of Dedication

A pioneer and pillar in softball officiating, Deb Goldpenny’s umpiring résumé stretches back to 1985. Her contributions span recreational leagues, ASA National Championships, and some of the NCAA’s most prestigious postseason events. Whether working Girls 12U Slow Pitch in Oregon, Women’s Major Fast Pitch in Illinois, or Women’s 18U Gold in Oklahoma City, Deb has left a meaningful mark on every level of the game.

Her commitment to professional development is evident in her repeated attendance at national umpire schools and her leadership as a clinician. She is a proud member of the National Indicator Fraternity and the Western New York Softball Hall of Fame. Goldpenny’s collegiate résumé includes multiple NCAA DIII National Championships and Regional Crew Chief roles, in addition to decades of service at THE Spring Games. Her influence extends off the field as well, through mentoring, clinic work, and community involvement in charitable organizations like Glory Be to Kids.

Midge Scholl –  Midge Scholl is a fixture in Pennsylvania softball.

Earning trust and top assignments through consistency and leadership. Her NCAA postseason résumé reflects rapid advancement and growing prestige: beginning with the 2019 Small College World Series, Scholl has worked multiple Middle Atlantic and Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Championships. She was selected for NCAA Division III Regionals in 2023 and 2024, and in 2024 advanced to the DIII Super Regional stage—a significant achievement.

As a crew chief in the 2024 United East Conference Championship Series and a 2025 NEC Championship umpire, Scholl’s progression continues upward. Her résumé is supported by high school postseason experience and major USA Softball events, including state championships and the All-American Games in Oklahoma City. Scholl’s reputation is built on preparation, precision, and professionalism.

Cathy Creighton – The Steady Hand Behind the Assignments

Cathy Creighton is more than just a seasoned official—she is a leader, mentor, and trusted figure in collegiate softball umpiring. Having served as an assignor for the Missouri Valley Conference and Summit League, Creighton also holds an impressive on-field career, highlighted by multiple NCAA DIII National Championship appearances, DI Regional and Super Regional roles, and JUCO National Championship assignments.

At THE Spring Games, she was elevated in 2025 to Site UIC and lead evaluator, handpicked by long-time UIC Lynne Nemeth to assist in managing and mentoring the next generation of umpires. Cathy’s impact is amplified through her extensive evaluator experience with NCAA and PGF events, her service on NFHS softball rules committees, and her coordination role with the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union. Her resume tells the story of someone who has not only umpired at the highest levels but shaped the systems that support officials nationwide.

Trey Gallardo – The Fast-Rising Force in Collegiate Officiating

Trey Gallardo is the epitome of rapid rise through preparation, mentorship, and performance. Though only two seasons into his NCAA journey, Gallardo brings with him two decades of travel ball experience. Since attending THE Spring Games in 2024, he has worked his way into some of the sport’s top conferences and postseason assignments.

In just his first season, he was plate umpire for the MAAC Championship Game—an opportunity made possible by UIC Lynne Nemeth. Through mentorship from figures like Keith Poirier and connections with Richie Silva and Tom Meyer, Gallardo has since worked games in the A10, CAA, AE, Patriot League, MAAC, and NEC. By 2025, he had already earned the plate assignment for the Patriot League Championship Game. Gallardo’s rise isn’t just fast—it’s a testament to readiness and the value of guidance from those who came before him.

Conclusion

Across decades of service, high-stakes postseason tournaments, and countless teachable moments, these five umpires reflect the diverse pathways and shared dedication within the softball officiating community. Whether guiding the next generation like Cathy and Deb, or blazing a quick trail like Trey, each official brings honor to the uniform and depth to the field.

At events like THE Spring Games, the spotlight may fall on players, but the game flows through the integrity, expertise, and poise of umpires like Jeremiah, Deb, Midge, Cathy, and Trey. Their stories are not just résumés—they are a celebration of what it means to serve the game.