AFLUA Life Member, Ian Sonnemann passed away on Friday August 31 peacefully, surrounded by his family after a long illness.
Ian grew up in Murmungee and Beechworth. He played football with Wangaratta, Beechworth, Tallangatta and Powerhouse in the VAFA.
Ian began umpiring in 1962 in the VAFA. In 1964 he moved to Canberra and umpired in the ACTAFL (1965-67), NSWAFL (1970-73), VFA (1974) and Eastern District (1983).
Through that time, he also had two stints in the VFLUA (1968-69 and 1975-82). Ian umpired 151 VCFL matches which included 5 finals. He was awarded AFLUA Life Membership in 1983.
Ian umpired the NSWAFL grand final in 1972 and the interstate match in the same year NSW v Queensland. He also held executive positions in NSWAFL Umpires’ Association as Treasurer, Secretary and President.
Ian is an inspiration to us all. See papers for funeral details.