It is very rare that the NCCUA and its members are heaped with praise. In fact most of the time it is criticism (mostly destructive and not constructive) that Umpires receive. But it is with the greatest pleasure that the NCCUA would like to share an open letter from a first year umpire that was read at the Association's Presentation night on Saturday 8 September 2007.
In reply, the Umpires Coach, President and Committee of the NCCUA would like to thank Robert Raslan for his kind words and take heart from the fact that Umpires have enjoyed the experience of umpiring in 2007 and wish to see all Umpires back in 2008.
"Firstly, I would like to thank all the Umpires on the Central Coast and Newcastle for all the help I have received during the year. There wasn't a question I asked that was too hard to answer and each and every one of you had helped me along the way throughout the year.
I would very much like to thank the Umpires Coach, Roger Crowhurst for giving me the opportunity to umpire this year and to assist me in the training he provided even though I didn't complete all the sessions that was asked. I appreciate the fact that he had confidence in me to do the job that was asked of me.
I would like to thank the NCCUA President, Darrel Luck for all that he has done through out the year, you have done a great job all year and to have these umpires along side is a credit to you, your committee and your commitment throughout the year.
Last but by no means least I would like to thank John Sullivan who has been my mentor over the past five years when I first started goal umpiring for the juniors. There wasn't a question that was too hard, and he always had time to answer those of which I was unsure of. I will always appreciate those kind words that you gave me and wish you all the best.
Sorry I cannot join you all tonight due to work commitments at the NCCUA Presentation night, I wish you all a great time tonight and hope to join you all next year.
Best wishes
Robert Raslan"
Last Modified on 24/09/2007 15:53