On Tuesday, the William Byrd and Staunton River baseball teams recognized two long time umpires for their service to high school athletics.
Greg Irby has umpired or officiated for 40 years and Joe Burrell has umpired or officiated for 39 years. They both received hats from William Byrd and Staunton River, a $25 gift card to one of four local restaurants, a water bottle, a signed card from both team, and a discount card worth $200.
“Umpires are the reason we are able to play the game,” said Byrd coach and Athletic Director Jason Taylor. “They are often an afterthought and take much criticism. There is a shortage across the US, Virginia and locally, and we thought it would be great gesture to honor two guys that have been around a long time and have helped shape our young athletes.”