The AFL community is mourning the death of NEAFL/QAFL Umpires Fitness Coach Warren Vines.
A talented athlete, Warren had a great playing career with the Highett Football Club throughout the 70s.
He also enjoyed success as a sprinter, winning the 1976 Wangaratta Gift and a heat of the prestigious Stawell Gift.
A move to Queensland saw Warren begin a long relationship with the Kenmore Bears, who describe him as “a parent, coach and committee person who was the heart and soul of the Kenmore club in years gone by.”
The club honoured his contribution by awarding him life membership.
Warren worked with many AFL clubs, including the Brisbane Bears – as a runner under Robert Walls – and more recently, a recruiter for St Kilda.
He worked with QAFL umpires during the 90’s and was bought back to the fold in 2012 by then umpires’ coach Cameron Nash.
Warren became the fulltime fitness coach in 2013 and is credited with raising the fitness standards of Queensland’s top umpires.
“Vinesy” was a passionate football person who thrived on helping others and enjoyed seeing people develop and succeed.
His contribution to the game has been enormous and his loss will be deeply felt throughout the AFL community.
A service will be held at the Boyd Chapel of the Springvale Crematorium, Princes Hwy Springvale on Friday September 5 at 10:30am
Vale Warren Vines
