AFL umpires expressed their support for Epping Football Club by donating tickets to Sunday’s Melbourne vs Richmond match at the MCG.
The tickets helped to allow club members to attend the AFL’s memorial for Epping’s Nathan Fitzgerald, who tragically died after sustaining head injuries during a suburban match.
Umpires, players and coaches stood arm in arm to observe a minute’s silence before the match in tribute to Nathan.
(L to R) Anthony Laughton, Luke De Vincentis, and Peter Kelly meet at the MCG before the AFL’s memorial to Nathan Fitzgerald.
Boundary umpire Anthony Laughton and AFLUA Manager of Operations and Member Engagement Peter Kelly met with Epping Football Club President Luke De Vincentis at the match.
Kelly passed on condolences on behalf of the AFL Umpires’ Association to De Vincentis who, after just a few weeks in the role of President, has done a commendable job of managing the Club’s response to the heartbreaking loss of one of their players.
Laughton, who was a key driver organising the efforts of the umpiring panel for Sunday’s game, said that the umpires were glad to be able to support the club during a difficult time.
“The football community has rallied around Epping Football Club during an incredibly difficult time, and the umpiring group wanted to play our small part in supporting the club and Nathan’s loved ones.
“Being able to help them be present at the MCG memorial was a meaningful way for our group to stand alongside the broader footy community and remember Nathan.
“Our thoughts remain with Nathan’s family, teammates and everyone at the Epping Football Club during this difficult time.”
For each match umpires are allocated two tickets by the AFL to allow friends and family to attend games.
As well as the memorial at the MCG on Sunday, all players and umpires wore black armbands in round 18.
Article by Jackson Kerr