While our three listed field umpires in WA have only umpired six quarters of footy during the pre-season they are primed and ready to go. Veteran, Dean Margetts, who is getting ready for his 12th season of AFL football said the pre-season had been tough, especially given the significant heat wave that has enveloped the state since Christmas.
With the changes to the NAB Cup structure there has only been one NAB Challenge game and one practice match available to tune up for the season. Trialling field umpires, Scott McPhee and Justin Orr have needed game time so the umpiring department can make its selections for the final two places on the list.
Brett Dalgleish has finally ended his prolonged battle with illness and is going into this season fitter than he has in the past two years. Boundary umpire, Adam Bastick has been re-contracted in 2014 following a strong showing in the WAFL last year. He is much more confident in his conditioning and throw-ins than he was when he was first listed in 2012.
Mathew Laycock is looking to some good early form now having some good games under his belt. Dale Edwick and Brett Rogers have also put in good pre-seasons.
The AFL listed guys attended an association dinner hosted by Peter Howe and Julia Gauci. Nathan Doing was presented with his 2013 grand final picture and All-Australian medallion. Former boundary umpire Alan Zanich was presented with his life membership certificate and his retirement caricature. Both achievements were feted by the other members present.
Pictured: AFL Goal Umpire Matthew Laycock and Boundary Umpire Brett Dalgleish
