GSFNC & BUA join forces to increase umpiring stocks
Golden Square Football Netball Club is joining forces with the Bendigo Umpires Association in a bid to arrest one of the biggest issues confronting country football - umpiring stocks.
In a history-making program for central Victorian football, Golden Square will become the first club to form a volunteer umpiring group that will assist with the officiating of matches across a range of age groups.
The BUA will provide coaching and education for the volunteer umpiring group, starting with a five-week program from Thursday, March 13.
Former GSFNC president Ian Symons, who is also an experienced field umpire, instigated the concept.
"This initiative is designed to introduce participants to all facets of umpiring in a familiar and welcoming environment and future proof the club so they are never short of quality umpires in junior or senior games,'' Symons said.
"Other clubs are invited to take this opportunity, which could help to greatly enhance the quality and quantity of umpires in all our local leagues."
AFL field umpire John Howorth, a product of the BUA, will assist BUA director of coaching Dean Goodridge in educating the umpiring group.
"I commend the Golden Square FNC for their insight in initiating the concept of a volunteer umpire group,'' Goodridge said.
"The BUA recognises the challenges of supplying suitably qualified umpires to the many games throughout the region from Friday night to Sunday afternoon. Many umpires officiate on at least two days over the weekend, which is a massive commitment throughout the winter months.
"Consequently, the BUA have on occasions asked clubs, especially junior clubs on a Sunday to supply their own umpires."
The free education sessions will take place at Golden Square's home ground in Wade Street on five consecutive Thursdays, starting March 13.
Anyone who would like to register their interest in the volunteer group can contact the BUA at
