Umpire’s dream came true at the ‘G’

It’s every young, aspiring umpire’s dream to one day be a part of the live game-day experience on the hallowed turf of the MCG.

That dream became a reality for Talent Pathway Field Umpire Matt Beard earlier this month when he was selected to officiate the National AFL Youth Girls Championships Grand Final at the MCG in Melbourne before the Richmond v Hawthorn clash.

Beard said it was a surreal moment for him as he stepped out onto the grounds before the first siren.

“The sound of the siren blasting overhead as we entered the ground was when it really kicked in for me,” Beard said.

“I was about to officiate on the most historical sporting stadiums in the country.”

Beard was part of a four-umpire contingent from WA, which was selected as part of the National Youth Girls Carnival Umpire Squad.

The other three umpires Beard buddied with all officiate the WAFL competition as field, boundary and goal umpires respectively.

WAFC Umpiring Pathway Manager Tim Priest said Beard’s recent experience is a true testament to his hard work and progression through the umpiring talent pathway.

“To be named as part of the WA travelling party was a feat in itself but to then be selected by AFL umpire officials to take part in the Youth Girls Grand Final at the MCG is a truly extraordinary achievement,” Priest said.

Beard is now working towards selections for the 2017 WAFL Umpire Panel.

“To further his umpiring repertoire Matt will be pushing to enter the WAFL Field Umpiring ranks,” Priest said.

14 Perth and Peel umpires, WACFL affiliate umpires, 3 WAAFL umpires and a few junior competition umpires are all in the mix for selection.