You're losing control ump," moaned the back man as the 50 metres was being set up in front of goal.
"Danny, it was your team mate who knocked him in the head after he'd taken the mark. That’s 50 metres," came the ump's response.
There are several elements of this exchange that intrigued and impressed me.
What impressed me was the way this young umpire showed maturity beyond his years to coolly and calmly run in and pull the offending player back to his new mark and then just as assertively respond to the back man, by name.
What intrigued me was the player's notion of "losing control" and what motivated him to make the comment. If he was trying to exert some influence on the umpire's performance then his criticism could have been better delivered.
There are some players who make a point of developing a rapport with the umpires. They know and use their name, they remain calm when interacting with them and they make their point without being emotive. In the same way that they assess the strengths and weaknesses of their opponents, they take the same disciplined approach to dealing with the officials.
These players earn the respect of the umpires, not because tell them they are doing a “great job”, but because they treat the umps as another part of the game. They do their job and allow the umpire to do theirs.
By paying head highs, late bumps and, front on contact (no matter how incidental) a field umpire maintains control and shows a duty of care to the playmaker. Being decisive, assertive and consistent in execution also helps gain respect.
How an umpire deliver the message is just as important. We all know that there are umpires who are not so self-assured and try to show control through a loud whistle and a louder voice. Players will comply but not in the same way as to an umpire who displays some understanding of the game and injects some personality.
"Look Stinger, I know you were trying to spoil but Sweetie you can't run front on at the guy going for the mark," is an example of how this experienced umpire delivers the message successfully. Not only did she show some sympathy for Stinger’s effort but also the reason for the decision was clearly stated. It’s not recommended to use terms of endearment to players unless you have a high level of comfort with yourself, umpiring and the players. To her it comes through experience and football knowledge and to some young umpires it comes naturally. Either way they still have to show discipline to succeed.
Good umpires do not need to prove that they are right, because they earn the players' respect by their actions and words. They grow to know themselves and are in charge of their game. They also respect the players who show the same control.
JIM VOSS MEMORIAL GOLF DAY
Jim Voss Was a fantastic clubman for the SUA and his memory is honoured in our annual golf tournament. This was held last Monday at Centenary Park. The weather was fantastic, the course was in fantastic condition and the golf was… equally fantastic.
Congratulations to our winning pair- Steve Penny and Frank Witting who proved just a bit too good for Bernie and Mike and the rest of the field. The barbecue back at the rooms was equally as enjoyable. Thanks to all the guys who organised the day and participated. We will do it again next year.
STRIKE BOWLING NIGHT
Another upcoming social event will be the Strike Bowling Night on 5th July starting at 6 pm. This is the second Monday of the school holidays and there will not be any training. The Seaford crew will play in Frankston while the Fountain Gate crew will be playing at the Narre Warren bowl. As with most of our social events, there is no charge for SUA members but you will need to register if you intend to play.
Supporting social functions is one way we can all contribute to make the SUA a strong cohesive association. Hope to see as many of you as possible there on the night.