As we reach the half way point in the 2016 season and a number of umpires enjoy a much needed weekend off, there will be 25 players from 10 different clubs joining forces to take on the SANFL on enemy territory.
But, as we know, without umpires there cannot be a game, so the VFL have selected three umpires to head over to Adelaide and represent the State game between the Peter Jackson VFL and the SANFL West End State Team. We would like to congratulate Field Umpire Daniel Butcher, Boundary Umpire Ben Macdonald and Goal Umpire Simon Plumridge.
Macdonald in action during 2016
All three umpired the 2015 VFL Grand Final and have had had impressive starts to the 2016 season and have deserved the call up to this prestigious game to be played on Sunday at the majestic Adelaide Oval, a venue Boundary Umpire Ben Macdonald is yet to experience. ‘I have never been to the Adelaide Oval and I am really looking forward to the experience’, Macdonald said. ‘I was stoked when I found out I was selected to umpire the state game. It is a big opportunity which doesn’t come around too often so I am honoured to be involved’.
Butcher during the Box Hill Vs. Coburg clash
Along with Macdonald, Field Umpire Daniel Butcher is also looking forward to the opportunity to represent his state. “I’m absolutely privileged to be given the opportunity to umpire the best players from each competition on Sunday. The day should bring us hard, tough and competitive footy which will be an exciting day for everyone involved.” He continued to tell VFUA.net “I’ve never been to Adelaide Oval before so it should be a good experience umpiring at that stadium.”
Plumridge during the 2015 Grand Final
2015 Goal Umpire of the Year Simon Plumridge said he was “shocked and excited” when his name was called out. “I felt very privileged to have been appointed to the game. I also felt a sense of responsibility to prepare and perform to my best ability, as I had been asked to represent the VFL goal umpiring group in umpiring this game. I’m really looking forward to umpiring in a different state, at an AFL venue. Adelaide Oval is beautiful so it’s really exciting to umpire there. I’m looking forward to spending time with Butch and Benny and meeting the SA umpires. Obviously the game too – it should be of a really high standard and players will be doing everything they can to win for their state, so I reckon it will be a high quality match.”
Head Coach Cameron Nash told VFUA.net “Daniel, Ben & Simon had a very successful 2015 season culminating in their appointment to the 2015 VFL Grand Final. They have continued this form into this season and thoroughly deserve this opportunity”.
“The game will be a great experience for them and we are confident they will represent themselves and the VFL umpiring team to the high standards we expect”.
We wish the best of luck to the three umpires and hope they enjoy the experience.
And Go Victoria of course!
Sunday May 29, Adelaide Oval
SANFL West End State Team v Peter Jackson VFL | 2:10pm
Click Here to read about which VFL players will be selected and details on how to watch and listen to the match.