DATE: 1/21/2018
John Simpers exemplified service to his community through his leadership and support of the amateur baseball umpire associations he helped organize, lead, and sustain for nearly 5 decades. John’s service was instrumental in establishing a top tier high school umpiring program, including the recruiting, training, scheduling, and management for our county’s youth as well as the famed Susquehanna League. His love of the game translated in a desire for every player to have a positive experience, from the starting shortstop to the bench player hoping to get on the field. John went the extra mile to make a difference in the lives and experiences of those around him, through his passion for baseball, softball, and umpiring; and to the young players competing on the field. Each year, at the HMBL spring event, a recipient who exemplifies John’s commitment to service to Harford County’s amateur baseball community will be recognized, and provided a stipend to help support their service.
John Simpers was a model for service to our community and the advancement of youth, High School, and Adult baseball officiating programs that helped elevate the caliber of competition and collegiality among all participants. He worked tirelessly to sustain high quality organizations and was always willing to give advice and direction to his many proteges for over forty years.