One element of umpiring that I gloat about to anyone that will listen is the access that community umpiring groups have to the AFL Umpiring department. To have elite and professional umpires, and their coaches, available to attend training at a local suburban football ground is a wonderful resource and can only enhance recruitment and retention of umpires.
This year the Riddell Umpires have been fortunate enough to have three visits so far from the AFL Umpiring department. Just prior to round 1, 1st year AFL field umpire, Jack Edwards, worked with our development squad to educate them on the hard work and commitment it takes to make the AFL. Jack also addressed our senior umpires about his journey from community football to the top level.
Like most umpiring groups around the country, we took part in Community Umpiring weekend, with a visit from 4 current AFL umpires who took skill drills and spoke to our group about what happens on match day and dealing with the pressure of AFL football.
Up next a visit from AFL Umpires Head Coach, Hayden Kennedy. Hayden’s address to over 100 umpires was on what makes Umpiring Success. He focused on five main areas; Free Kick Selection, Management of the Game, Skills, Communication and Bouncing. What impressed our group was Hayden’s ability to relate what is happening at the top level down to local football. Umpires could take away some elements to work on in their game the following weekend. Using video examples and some question and answer, Hayden was honest about where the game is heading and the role umpires play.
Like many players look up to their AFL idols, the same can easily be said for umpires. On all three occasions Riddell Umpires asked for further advice from their AFL counterparts, some hints and tips along with the odd photo as well. These visits are a vital component in the growth of umpiring across the country and we would like to thank the AFL umpiring department for their ongoing support of community umpiring.
Michael O'Keefe is the Senior Coach, Riddell Umpires
