Umpires take to field
Well, the Grand Final is here again and we are ready for the big day.
Even as umpires, it's a day where nerves can come into play.
Our three Umpires in each grade will do a good job, although the unlucky losing team may think otherwise.
We have had a very good season and with the help of a few club umpires we filled every appointment.
We have good support from the NEFL, in particular Peter Meyer, Mel Helbig and Darren Longbottom.
Without this backing we as a group would struggle to get through.
My assistant, Kym Dixon has once again been a rock for me.
Not sure how many years Dicko has been with me but it's been many.
His calm nature and thoughtfulness has helped me out time and time again.
A special mention to Brad Ross from the Min Man Club.
Brad has supplied the bulk of the boundary umpires which at times be a thankless job.
We owe a lot to Andrew Mitchell for his passionate support, his attention to detail has been a big support.
So much so, Mitch won our Umpire of the year for his service to our umpiring group.
All of our Umpires have done very well, but I have to thank, Craig Weckert (BSR), Ben Przibilla and Dave Parkinson (RSMU), Dave Boulton (Nth Clare) and Luke Dohnt (Blyth Snowtown).
These person's were the club umpires who turned up each week for me and who I believe will strengthen our Umpiring panel for years to come.
Lastly are many sponsors, Steinborner Cars, Bentleys Hotel and Chelsea Ashmeade from Northern Argus newspaper have been our major sponsors and this is very much appreciated by the umpires.
Don't forget, if it's not on it's not on.
Micheal Cogan,
North Eastern Football League umpires coordinator
Caption: Umpires from Saturday's A and B grade games, (left) Paul Meyer, Corey Friebel, Richard Sandow, Bob Woodfull, Phil Bosustow and Kym Dixon.
Northern Argus thanks the umpires for their weekly commitment to the game.