Next Gen of umpires coming through
Next Gen Umpire Montana Harvey.
Montana Harvey is one of the new generation of young umpires enjoying the role.
The 18 year-old now has a few years of experience behind her after first taking up the role in Glen Innes where her family is heavily involved with the Celts.
“When I started umpiring, I was too old to play in the under-14s team that my Dad had started and I was too young to play in the women’s team,” Montana said.
“I could’ve got permission to play in the women’s team but I’m not that skilled and it seemed a bit scary.
“Dad said why don’t you learn umpiring and be our team umpire.”
Since starting blowing a whistle, Harvey has shown more than enough promise as an umpire to be included in the Next Gen Umpire program.
Others in the program from the region include Hudson Barry and Andy Campfield.
Emily Brown, the Umpiring Co-ordinator for the ACT and Regional NSW, said the Next Gen Umpires program is for umpires generally aged between 14 and 19 who’ve shown a strong interest in umpiring and have a desire to progress further in self development.
“It’s a program designed to support the transition from junior umpiring to senior,” Brown said.
“It’s a statewide online program that involves five online sessions where they’re taught five fundamental skills of umpiring.
“There’s also opportunities provided at the local representative level.”
Brown added that those who are considered to be in the best 12 to 18 young umpires in the state get to go to Albury to officiate in the State Zone Trials.
Montana Harvey in her role as a field umpire.
For those who are simply looking to be involved in footy, there’s the benefits of remaining fit as well as being able to earn some added cash.
Montana said being close to the action each week is motivation enough for her.
“I still wanted to be involved in the game because I love it,” the Hawthorn supporter said.
“With umpiring all you really need is to know how to run and know the rules. And it’s the best way to stay involved without being on the sidelines.”
Now moved into Southern Cross University’s Coffs Harbour campus where she’s about to embark on studies for a Bachelor of Teaching degree, Montana said any young person thinking about becoming an umpire should do so.
“I’ve seen all of the photos and memes that say it’s the best seat in the house and it’s true,” she said.
“For someone like me who doesn’t have great skills compared to some of the women who are really talented, by umpiring I still get to be involved and enjoy a game I really love.”
Anybody thinking of umpiring at any level in the AFL North Coast in 2022 can register their interest by sending an email to emily.brown@afl.com.au. Introductory training will be offered as part of the AFL North West Education Roadshow on Sunday 13 March (10:30am to 2:00pm) at Wests Leagues in Tamworth. You can send an RSVP to attend either through your club or via Emily Brown.
AFL North West is seeking people to fill the following honoraria roles:
- Umpire Manager (view position description here)
- Umpire Club Champion – one for each club (view the position description here)
The Umpire Manager is responsible for the management and coordination of the North West umpire group, including weekly appointments using the online platform OfficialsHQ.
The Umpire Club Champion is responsible for promoting umpiring within their club, recruiting new umpires, and supporting umpires on match day and at training.
To express an interest in either of these roles, please send an email to Emily Brown (emily.brown@afl.com.au), outlining why you would be a good fit for the role by Friday 11 March.
