Father's Day is always special for a dad, but all the more of a bonding experience when the parent can share a special interest with his daughter or son. Such was the case this past Father's Day, June 15, when Kevin Boughan and daughter Gillian both worked as umpires in the Newtown Softball Grateful Dad 10U/12U Tournament. The Boughans worked two games together at the Upper Liberty field.

This was the first time Keven, in his sixth year umpiring, and Gillian, in her second season, were on the same softball field making the calls. Kevin was home plate ump in the first game while Gillian worked the bases as the infield umpire and the father-daughter umping duo switched for the second game. Both were 10U games.

“Those were the two best games I’ve ever had the pleasure of umping. I had so much fun with Gilly out there, and was so proud to work with her," Kevin said.

Kevin is the vice president of Northwest Connecticut Umpires Association, working close to 150 games a year. Gillian, a softball player who recently completed her junior year at Newtown High School, got into umpiring in the fall. She umped five games last fall, and has worked ten so far this season.

“It was really special because I love my dad, and to share this with him on Father’s Day was great," Gillian said. “I really enjoy umping. It makes me feel closer to my dad, and I feel like I’m giving something back to the game, especially with the young girls."

Gillian is a standout on the field and her knowledge of the game as a player translates when it comes to calling plays. A third baseman, she is also a solid hitter and helped lead the high school team into the Class LL State Tournament quarterfinals, earning All South-West Conference accolades along the way. Having an in-house mentor and passion for the game gave Gillian the motivation to try umpiring.

Kevin played baseball at Davidson College in Davidson, N.C. and coached in the Newtown Softball program (recreation and travel) from 2016 to 2019 before taking on umpiring.

“There’s such a need for quality officiating in youth sports, and I love being out there and being part of the solution. We represent the sport, and baseball and softball have been part of my life forever — I can’t imagine not being part of it," Kevin said.

Especially when his daughter is on the field making the calls as well.

Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.