AFL Mackay today has officially announced two key signings for the AFL Mackay Umpires, with a new sponsor and Umpires Co-ordinator for the region.
Local business and massive community supporters, John Donnelly the Good Guys have come on board in support of Umpiring in the region.
Owner John Donnelly said he is wrapped to join forces with AFL Mackay and in particular the Umpires who play an important role in grassroots football.
"Absolutely, pleased to support the AFL Mackay Umpires," John Donnelly told Mackay.AFLQ.com.au
"Any Umpire or referee is important to all sport, they really are the good guys," Mr Donnelly added.
In another key announcement for the AFL Mackay Umpires, Mr Andrew Kelly has also been announced as the regions new Umpires Co-ordinator, starting effective immediately.
AFL Queensland Regional Manager spoke to Mackay.AFLQ.com.au about Mr Kelly's appointment and what it means for the region.
"Unfortunately we were left short at the start of the season and without an Umpire's Co-ordinator," Regional Manager Jeff Neumann told Mackay.AFLQ.com.au
"The process started in March to identify a suitable applicant to look after the Umpires group and Umpiring in general."
"Andrew has a wealth of knowledge of the local landscape and a really passionate person about Umpiring and leading the group into their next frontier," Neumann added.
Hailing from Victoria and starting his football career at a young age, Andrew is also a passionate St Kilda man and always shown great interest and passion for our great game.
Playing and administration has always been Andrew's first choice but told Mackay.AFLQ.com.au that he wanted to lend a hand as the Umpires had a shortage this season.
"I saw the dire need for umpires in the AFL Mackay competitions and decided not to leave it up to others to try and assist," Mr Kelly said.
"(My main focus will be) retaining the excellent umpiring talent we have in the league as well as attracting more quality people to umpiring (the) stocks.
"A key focus will also be developing and encouraging umpires of all ages," newly appointed Umpires Co-ordinator Andrew Kelly said.
Andrew's main focus will be on the administration, logistics, up-skilling and identifying Umpires to progress through the Umpire Talent Pathway.
If you'd like to get in the game, the Umpires train every Monday evening from 5:30pm to 6:30pm at Harrup Park Country Club (Lamb Street entrance) or send enquiries to AFLMackay@aflq.com.au
Last Modified on 16/07/2015 11:05