In his nearly twenty years of service to the USSSA, Bob Parvin umped all over the country in NITs and World tournaments, and in every State  tournament in Illinois.  He averaged some 250 games a season, and one year logged 523 games.  On one occasion, Parvin umpired a dozen games in a row.

Recognized by umpires, players, managers and complex owners alike as the best ump in the state, he was a commanding presence on the field.  The last five years of his career Parvin served as Illinois USSSA State Umpire in Chief, supervising countless umpire clinics.  Most of today's top USSSA umpires were developed under his tutelage.

"You have to love the game, and like people, in my opinion," says Parvin. "I was around friends, people with the same interests as me, and around a sport I grew up with and loved."

Parvin is quick to acknowledge two people in particular as helpful in his career. "Ken Franzen was most instrumental in my career," he says. "If my son could grow up to be like Ken, I'd be pleased."

"And I have to thank Ken Paulson," he adds. "He knew the rules as well as anyone I've ever met."

In 1995, Parvin underwent multiple bypass surgery, and retired from umpiring.  He now owns and runs BJs, a Rockford sports bar, and stays connected to softball as a multi-team team sponsor.