THE West Indies Cricket Umpires’ Association (WICUA) 27th biennial convention got underway n New York City, USA on Saturday.The convention brings together over 120 delegates and observers from the 10 affiliate countries which include Guyana, Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Leeward Islands, Windward Islands, Cayman Islands, Bermuda, Canada and the United States of America.
The convention is held every two years on a rotational basis, the last being held in Trinidad & Tobago in 2013, while this is the second time its taking place New York City, the last time being in 1999. According to a release from the WICUA, conventions are always welcome and exiting times for umpires, as they get an opportunity to dialogue with each other, get to know fellow umpires from across the region, and most importantly to discuss matters pertinent to cricket and cricket umpiring in the region and the world.
The release also pointed out that “it is a means by which ideas garnered from resolutions, discussions and other information is provided to the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) for action.”
The release disclosed that the WICB plays an important role in these conventions as it was instrumental in the formation of the WICUA in 1962. “It provides the WICUA with a major financial contribution to assist in the hosting of these major events. In fact, at the last convention, the WICUA celebrated its 50th anniversary with a glittering presentation ceremony honoring prominent past and current members, its affiliate countries, and the WICB.”
The convention kicked off its activities yesterday (Sunday) with a Church Service at the Convention Centre – The Raddisson Hotel in Queens, New York , which will be followed today (Monday) with the flag raising and opening ceremonies and the General Council Meeting. The General Council deals with the minutes of the last convention.
Reports and Election of Officers are among the other matters slated to be dealt with. The General Council meeting will be followed by discussions during the business session, which will see several presentations by the various groups.
Between all the serious work sessions, there will be nightly social activities hosted by various groups and organizations; a cricket match played between the host country and the visiting umpires and the culmination of the week of activities with the President’s Banquet and Award Ceremony set to take place on Friday night.
The WICUA is currently led by president Cecil Fletcher of Jamaica; Billy Doctrove, executive vice president; Messrs. Fitzroy Hayles, Goaland Greaves, Clancy Mack, Patrick Grazette, Area 1-4 vice presidents,Vivian Johnson, Hon. Secretary Norman Malcolm, assistant secretary/treasurer and Clyde Cumberbatch, Chairman, Training and Examination Council.