The Goulburn Murray football community is in mourning after the passing of respected community figure and umpiring great, Greg Sidebottom on Saturday afternoon.
At age 61, Greg’s passion for umpiring community football within the Goulburn Murray region continued to grow both on and off the field.
Greg’s knowledge and love of umpiring was shared at a grassroots level, recruiting new members, mentoring the next generation and assisting with their development.
Beyond the football field, Greg was a respected member of the community and held roles at the Shepparton Youth Club United Cricket Club, Greater Shepparton City Council and Goulburn-Murray Water.
In addition to his work within the community, Greg’s umpiring career was one many would envy.
His achievements speak for themselves.
Officiating in 39 VFL/AFL games from 1983 to 1987, appointed Director of Umpiring at the Eastern District Football League 1998-1991, a VFL Umpires Observer, a Life Member of the Goulburn Valley Football Umpires Association and he was recently awarded Life Membership of Shepparton Youth Club United last month.
AFL Goulburn Murray Region General Manager, Martin Gleeson said that Greg’s life was one which would be remembered throughout the community.
"Greg was universally popular and respected, not only with his fellow umpires but with players, club officials and staff within the region," Gleeson said.
"His involvement in community football not only within the region, but across Victoria was significant and confirms Greg’s standing as one of the great contributors to our game.
"It would be fair to say that many of the young and emerging umpires in the region owe their start and early development as umpires to Greg’s work as the GVFUA Recruitment Officer.
"AFL Goulburn Murray passes on our deepest condolences to Greg’s family, wife Toni and sons Warren and Vaughan at this very sad time. We are all the better for having known Greg Sidebottom."
Last Modified on 04/04/2016 14:40