UCU Appoints John Gallante and
Connor Hoagland as Vice Presidents
of Regional Operations

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 27, 2026 – United Collegiate Umpires (UCU), part of the United Umpires family of organizations, today announced the appointment of John Gallante and Connor Hoagland as Vice Presidents of Regional Operations.

In their new roles, Gallante and Hoagland will provide additional support to collegiate officials, conference offices, coaches, and administrators. Their efforts will focus on strengthening communication, supporting officials’ development, enhancing client service, and contributing to the continued growth of UCU. Gallante will focus his efforts throughout the Metro Philadelphia region, while Hoagland will continue working on the field as he takes on an expanded role across upstate New York and New England.

"John has been an important part of UCU’s growth, and his experience and relationships in the Metro Philadelphia market make him a strong resource for the people and programs we serve," said Rudy Firmbach, President of United Collegiate Umpires. "Connor brings strong collegiate baseball knowledge and a commitment to building relationships inside the baseball community. His expanded role across upstate New York and New England will provide additional support as we continue to grow and serve those markets."

“UCU has experienced tremendous growth, and I’m excited to continue contributing in this expanded role,” Gallante said. “Having spent years working throughout the Metro Philadelphia area, I’ve had the opportunity to get to know many of the people who make college baseball in this region so strong. I look forward to building on that experience and helping UCU continue to provide the level of service and support that has been a hallmark of our organization.”

“I’m excited for the opportunity to take on a larger role with UCU,” Hoagland said. “I’m proud of what we’ve built throughout upstate New York and New England and of the progress we’ve made in those markets. I look forward to building on that foundation, creating new opportunities, and continuing to play a role in UCU’s growth throughout the region.”

“These appointments add experienced people to our leadership structure and strengthen our ability to serve the people and programs that rely on us,” Firmbach added. “A key part of [United Umpires CEO] Alex Skandalis’ companywide vision has been building a strong team within UCU and adding resources that allow us to better serve every part of our operation. John and Connor are important additions to that team. At the same time, we remain committed to the model that has helped build UCU, giving our conferences the consistent, dedicated leadership, attention, and personal service they have always valued and come to expect.”

The appointments are effective immediately.