FOUR of the Leagues best will trial with the VFL this off-season in the lead up to the 2017 season.
70+ umpires over all three disciplines from across the state will attend the 2017 trials giving them the chance to test their skills against the VFL’s elite as well as gain valuable insight into what it takes to umpire at VFL level.
Sam Ferguson, William Caldwell, Pieter Van Pinxteren and Tristan Webb will all represent the Eastern Football League as part of the program, all four umpires were appointed to Senior Grand Finals in season 2016.
Field – Sam Ferguson: Sam came to the EFL 2 seasons ago from the NT. Sam is a natural runner who has excelled this season as a regular Division 1 senior umpire & culminated in seeing him appointed to the Division 4 Senior grand final. Sam has a great training work ethic and has worked hard this season to have a strong work rate at all times on the football field and being professional at all times.
Boundary – Tristan Webb: Boundary umpire of the year 2016. Tristan has captured off a stunning season, which has seen him officiate in every home and away game in 1st Division Seniors, and doubling up in the split round in Division 2. Tristan was nominated to attend the VFL as a Rookie boundary umpire throughout the season where he would attend several specialised training/-coaching sessions. His influence amongst his peers as a leader speaks loudly of the character of the individual. Tristan’s performance this season resulted in seeing him officiate in the Division 1 Grand Final
Boundary – Pieter Van Pinxteren: In his own admission, Pieter had discussed his disappointment in his own preparation leading into Pre season this year, having not done a great deal of running or strength/ conditioning in the gym. We set some realistic tasks and a few small goals in which Pieter needed to continue to work on through out the course of the season. It wasn’t until after the split round, when I saw the true potential. He was set up each week to run against his peers in many of the top of the table clashes that lead into the finals. His presence in these games, are a testament to his commitment to keep working to the final siren and was appointed to the Division 1 Senior Grand Final.
Boundary – William Caldwell: A senior statesmen of the boundary squad, William commenced his umpiring at EFL in 2010. Anyone who knows Will knows his passion: all things umpiring/ footy. Will’s appointment to this year’s senior Division 1 Grand Final, has been due to his determination to keep striving to achieve his goal. Doing everything asked of him, in his preparation during the week and on game day. William’s attention to detail and professionalism is a reflection of the success he wants for himself.
The EFL would like to congratulate those nominated and wishes them all the best of luck!
For the full list click HERE
