TWO former EDFL Umpires will be playing a key role in AFL history this weekend.
Ben Cheever and Michael Pell, who both rose through the EDFL’s umpiring ranks, will be officiating Saturday’s AFLW Grand Final between the Brisbane Lions and Adelaide Crows on the Gold Coast.
“Both Ben and Michael have had very good AFLW seasons and will no doubt do fantastic jobs on Saturday,” AFL National Umpiring Development Manager Adam Davis said.
“Ben is a very composed umpire who handles challenging situations extremely well. He is respected by the players and goes about his business unobtrusively.
“Michael is a promising umpire who has all the necessary skills to carve out a successful umpiring career.
“Michael will play a key role as Emergency Umpire supporting the umpiring team on the day.”
We recently had a chat to both umpires. Here’s what they had to say:
How do you feel about being appointed to the AFLW Grand Final?
Cheever: Excited would be an understatement. However, it’s great to see that all the hard work over the past few years has paid off. It’s also great to be a part of a historic moment for the AFL, being one of the team taking the field to umpire the first AFLW Grand Final.
Pell: It’s a nice reward for the effort I’ve put in over the course of the AFLW competition and I'm pleased that the coaches have entrusted me with the responsibility of being the emergency umpire for Saturday’s game. The opportunities given to all the umpires throughout the tournament are something we are very grateful for and will reflect back upon fondly.
What key things have you learnt during your transition from EDFL to AFLVIC?
Cheever: Firstly, how great the facilities and coaching is down at the EDFL. Our facilities at AFLVIC are similar to those at the EDFL. However, I have learned that to succeed beyond the EDFL, umpires need to be coachable, as well as demonstrate professionalism.
Pell: Needing to be switched on and sharp for every contest that presents itself as there is nowhere to hide with all games videoed and a greater level of scrutiny and accountability for every decision and non-decision made.
What tip would you give to a new umpire?
Cheever: The most important thing to do is listen — to your coaches, as well as fellow umpires. They are a rich source of information that will help you learn and develop the skills to become a better umpire.
Pell: Be confident and trust yourself.
What is your goal in 2017?
Cheever: To follow on from last year and umpire more TAC Cup finals and hopefully get appointed to a few Senior VFL games.
Pell: To make my VFL senior debut.
