After all the preparation, we finally get to umpire today. The morning started with a light walk where umpires had the opportunity to bond and continue to get to know each other.
A quick breakfast then we made our way to the Blacktown International Sportspark where for many of our umpires it was the first time they have walked onto a AFL standard ground. Team photo was next and then time to prepare for the first game. It was Division One day with SA vs WA and Vic Metro vs Vic Country. This was going to be fast, free flowing football.
The AFL gave us everything we need to be as professional as we can. The field and the emergency umpires were all wired up with MatchCom, the same system the AFL uses. This allowed them to communicate through the whole game. A pile of brand new footy's, so no waiting for the ball after a goal (unlike local footy where it does down into the creek) and the ability to get our games on hard drive after the game.
As expected the games were of a fantastic standard, extremely fast and clean. What a great pleasure coaching a group of guys and girls who love umpiring, want to learn and make small changes based on your feedback.
Once the games were completed, it was time for recovery. Our trainer, Phil, worked the umpires through a full post game recovery that included a hot and cold treatment back at the hotel pool.
The pool was about 15 degrees, and about 10 outside the pool however not too much complaining as the umpires guys wanted to make the most of this opportunity to feel like professional AFL Umpires.
The last session on the day was just before dinner. A 360 session where the two panels from the day sit as a group and discuss the game. Facilitated by the umpires (not the coaches) the umpires raised issues from the game, gave each other feedback and made notes on what to look out for in the next round of games.
An early start tomorrow with 3 games for the day and a chance for our guys to umpire with some local umpires from the NSW AFL.
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