LAST week AFL Queensland’s State Umpiring Manager Mark Turner visited junior and senior EDFL umpiring training at Windy Hill.
Mark was asked about his visit and his observations.
What brought you to the EDFL?
“National Umpiring Development Manager Adam Davis recommended visiting EDFL due to the successful junior and development program being run there.”
What were your observations of the EDFL’s umpiring program?
“Great facilities, passionate and dedicated coaches and a very welcoming and friendly environment that is obviously as a result of good people leading the program.”
What is the umpiring landscape like in Queensland in comparison to the EDFL?
“Our facilities are far inferior, numbers are lower, coaching staff are not as experienced and we struggle to find juniors. But those involved are extremely passionate about improving opportunities for umpires in Queensland.”
What will you take back to umpiring in Queensland?
“That with the right coaching, programs and a focus on development, we can produce quality umpires.”
The EDFL followed up with Adam Davis on his thoughts in recommending Mark to visit the EDFL.
“I encouraged Mark Turner to visit EDFL umpires as they provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for all umpires,” Davis said.
“Their diversity and inclusion programs are first rate and their talent pathway development continues to produce State League and AFL umpires.”
“It made sense for Mark to learn from a great organisation as he sets out to develop Queensland umpiring.”
EDFL Director of Umpiring Rowan Sawers acknowledged the efforts of all his coaches.
Special mention was given to the Junior Coaches in Brett Pallini, Mark Volich, Kelvin French, Will Harris, Aden Kittel and Keith Ogston.
He said they are very passionate and dedicated to the cause of developing young umpires within our programs.
We need to retain all our Junior Umpires to ensure we service the needs of our Junior and Senior competitions.
“While we have set up the right structure for recruitment, we need the assistance of every club and coach in the EDFL to also nurture and protect our umpires on game day,” Sawers implored.
“This will improve retention.”
