Not everyone fulfils the destiny that seems to be laid out in front of them. This may be because we can only control so much, or perhaps because what seemed our destiny was, in fact, not. Continue reading →

Former VFUA member and 2014’s AFL Victoria Field Umpire of the Year Jack Edwards will make his AFL Debut this weekend in the Hawks v Demons match.
 
Edwards, who umpired 55 VFL senior games and took charge of the 2014 VFL Grand Final was promoted onto the AFL list in October last year. After a long and grueling preseason he will take charge of the Saturday afternoon blockbuster at the MCG in an experience he has been dreaming of for years.
 
Growing up in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, Edwards started umpiring at age 14 in the Northern Football League with his father, Craig Edwards. His love of the game and keen desire to continue umpiring the best footy in front of him lead him to the VFL in season 2010. After being selected to the Development Squad from 2010 till 2012 he was promoted to the VFL Senior list in 2013 and made his debut shortly after.
 
An excellent preseason training program that he undertook in 2014 lead him to some great matches in the same year including the VFL v SANFL state league match, Foxtel Cup matches and participation in the Under 18 National Championships in Perth. Edwards was then selected to umpire the 2014 VFL Grand Final between Footscray and Box Hill, and he was also awarded with the AFL Victoria Field Umpire of the Year award.
 
The VFUA wishes Jack the best of luck in not only his debut game this weekend but also for his AFL Career. Go well, Jack!

2014 was an exciting and successful season for numerous members. The VFUA would like to congratulate the following umpires and coaches who achieved a promotion in the off-season. Continue reading →