Umpire’s special Grand Final experience

Karratha based umpire James Foster-Reed was one of two lucky winners of the AFL Umpire experience in October, which included participating in the AFL Grand Final parade and umpiring in grid games at half time at the MCG.

James said it was an amazing experience he would never forget.

“I still couldn’t believe it was real,” he said.

“The moment came from walking into the changeroom and then walking out onto the MCG itself. Walking on the ground at the MCG with the best bunch of Auskick kids was the most amazing feeling, especially knowing that I was where the big game is played and that I could never forget this moment.

“The feeling of having around 100,000 people looking down on you was amazing. I want to thank everyone that helped get me there to experience that moment.”

WAFC Umpire Development Manager and AFL Umpire Dean Margetts had the pleasure of phoning James to let him know about the opportunity.

“It wasn’t easy for James to get there as he is based in Karratha up North in WA, but the community rallied around and James and his Dad were on their way.

“The best part for me and the role I am in is seeing that from a phone call advising James of his win, you see the experience he had with other umpires from around the country and the smiles on their faces are just priceless.

“That is what umpire development is about, providing opportunities like this and knowing the feedback James would have shared with his peers on his return can only be a glowing endorsement for Umpiring Nationally.”