First year field umpire, Andrew Stephens was a finalist in the 20th Annual Queensland Sports Awards that were announced at a gala dinner last night. Four other sporting officials were nominated with the winner being Jacqui Kenny (triathlons). Andrew was appointed to the list in 2014 and umpired 11 games.
“It was a fantastic night watching legends of Australian sport being inducted into the Hall of Fame,” reflected Andrew this morning. He was right on the money when you see, Natalie Cook OAM, Matthew Hayden AM, Leisel Jones OAM and Darren Lockyer being inducted. Andrew was justifiably proud simply being nominated.
Andrew has just relocated to Melbourne and has been jolted back to reality with a tough first couple of weeks on the track. “I have now adjusted to the pace and tempo required and have improved on the back of my first year,” said Andrew. He returns to the training track tonight with the stars still in his eyes watching his heroes accept their rewards. “It will only take the first 400m to remind me to get my mind back on the job,” he joked as he headed to training.