Greg Cudmore umpired his 600th game on Saturday after 30 years as a whistle blower. Greg, who started umpiring after an injury interrupted career, never dreamt that he would be umpiring 30 years later.
Tuesday, 12 July, 2010
Greg Cudmore umpired his 600th game on Saturday after 30 years as a whistle blower. Greg, who started umpiring after an injury interrupted career, never dreamt that he would be still umpiring 30 years later. Alex Hills v Wynnum local clash was the backdrop to this incredible personal mile stone.
Greg elected to umpire his 600th games with his son Adam (pictured) and long time mentor Vin Hally (Victoria). Alex Hills made a suprise presentation to Greg with an Alex Hills jersey signed by the club thanking him for his efforts over the last few years. Greg is a long time resident of the Redland’s and has covered many games in the local area.
He has seen many changes in umpiring over that time including umpiring solo to two and now three umpires and the introduction of coloured uniforms.
Career highlights have been umpiring a VFL Senior practice matice between Hawthorne and Fitzroy, umpiring 14 Grand Finals and coaching umpires in Queensland and Victoria.
Greg, who is the director of Sport at Ormiston College said the attraction of umpiring was the camaraderie with fellow umpires and the challange of getting it right.
“Umpires experience the same excitment as players and have the best seat in the house.” Greg said. He encourages retiring players and juniors to consider umpiring.
Greg has hinted that it is time to retire but his wife, Fran, and son, Adam, also umpires have heard that song for the past few years.
