Young NSW umpire impresses selectors

AFL NSW/ACT is proud to recognise the achievements of Hayden Banks, a young umpire from Wagga Wagga in the state’s south.

During the recent U15 National Indigenous Championships held on the Gold Coast in April, Hayden showed suberb skills and commitment by both umpiring and playing every day of the tournament. He impressed selectors so much with his enthusiasm and talent that he was selected as the official umpire for the Flying Boomerang’s international tour to South Africa later this year.

The Flying Boomerangs is a personal development and leadership program incorporating a match series against developing international countries, with the team comprised of young indigenous athletes aged 14-15 years of age.

AFL NSW/ACT Umpiring Development Coordinator Luke Olsen says Hayden is a great role model for all young umpires.

“He is a great young man who shows all the characteristics of what we want our young footballers to be,” he said.

“Hayden is a member of the South West Regional Junior Umpiring Squad and also in the mix for Senior selection for North Wagga in the Farrer Football & Netball League.

“This not only shows that good players can also excel in umpiring (and vice versa), but young players can participate and achieve at a high level in both aspects of the game! “

AFL Engagement and Talent Coordinator Andrew McLeod said Hayden impressed everyone with his work ethic and commitment.

“A few times during the Kickstart carnival I asked Hayden if he would like to have a rest due to the scheduling of NSW/ACT games and his umpiring commitments, Hayden wouldn’t have a bar of it, his Mum was so proud and often reiterated how much he loved it and wouldn’t have it any other way,” he said.

AFL NSW/ACT would like to congratulate Hayden on his selection and wish him all the best for his upcoming tour of South Africa.