IF YOU'VE ever wanted to try becoming an umpire, the Goulburn Valley Football Umpires Association (GVFUA) has an opportunity for you.
The organisation is set to hold a "First Bounce Experience" on Thursday, March 5 at Kialla Park Recreation Reserve (back oval) as they aim to attract new members.
In recent seasons, the number of umpires has diminished across the Goulburn Valley, leaving some teams playing games without an official umpire.
And AFL Goulburn Murray's director of umpiring Cruze O'Shea hopes the event could help to avoid such issues in future.
“We're encouraging everyone to get along and have a bit of fun,” O'Shea said.
“There will be several competitions throughout the night including a highest bounce, nearest to bin boundary throw in competition and best flare flag wave competitions.
“And we will follow this with an information session to answer any questions people may have.”
The group currently has members from Echuca, but they must travel to Kyabram to undergo weekly training - something O'Shea wants to change in the near future.
“Our aim is to be able to establish a base in Echuca,” he said.
“For that to happen we would need close to 15 members. And like all our other locations there would be a structured training program in place.
“We can ensure there is consistency across the board.”
The GVFUA services the Goulburn Valley League, Murray Football League, Kyabram District Football League, Northern Country Women's League and the Shepparton District Junior Football League.
For further details, contact Cruze O'Shea on 0458 208 972 or at cruze.oshea@afl.com.au