Field umpire Brett Rosebury was awarded his AFL life membership by AFL Commission chairman, Mike Fitzpatrick at last week’s AFL season launch at the newly revamped, Adelaide Oval. Brett was presented along with Sydney coach, John Longmire, Geelong Coach, Chris Scott and players, Ryan O’Keefe, Joel Corey and Lenny Hayes for achieving 300 matches of AFL football. Dr Harry Unglik, David Smorgan and Brian Sierakowski were awarded their life memberships for providing “special service to the game.”
John Longmire responded on behalf of the newly elected life members and said of Brett, “Here is an umpire who has the total respect of all the players and coaches of the AFL.” A very fitting remark and one that will live with Brett for the remainder of his life.
Brett has umpired 281 matches including 30 finals and 6 grand finals. The remainder of Brett’s 300 matches are made up from NAB Cup and International rules matches since he debuted in 2000.
Brett was the youngest to debut as an AFL/VFL field umpire aged 20. Originally from Western Australia, Brett was coached in WA by long time friend and mentor, David Johnson who accompanied Brett to the award ceremony. Brett was extremely humbled by his award and, now, his standing in the game. “You could not wish to meet a more professional young man in football and one who holds the values of a team first culture,” said AFLUA CEO, Peter Howe, who was on hand to watch Brett receive his award.
