BDAFL umpire named All-Australian
This recognition was just reward for Head who was a standout at the carnival which involved Under-12s and Under-15s state sides competing over the week-long tournament.
The 16 year-old was selected for the National event after excellent umpiring performances at the NSW Combined High Schools carnival in Broken Hill in June.
After the NSW Carnival Head said: “I feel like I have learnt so much more from this camp, and hopefully I can take this knowledge and skills back with me.
“Nationals will present another step in my hopeful AFL umpiring career, and the opportunity to umpire another higher standard of footy as well as meeting completely different umpires from different states will be a great experience.”
It has been an exciting year this year for Head, as the former Central Coast junior as he also debuted in the Black Diamond Cup Premier Division. His development has been assisted over the last two years in being a member of the NSW/ACT Regional Squad.
This program involves umpires from across NSW/ACT that have shown promise in junior competitions and aim’s to help them develop their skills and knowledge through monthly coaching sessions and coaching at representative matches to help guide them towards senior football.
“Umpiring in the BDAFL has been a great opportunity; it’s challenging, enjoyable and rewarding,” he said.
Head, along with another BDAFL umpire Joseph O’Brien did the region proud as they umpired at the three-day tournament and received coaching and advice from NSW/ACT Umpire Manager Graham Glassford.
After the tournament Glassford said: “Both Lachlan and Joseph had an excellent carnival in Broken Hill. Both boys showed a positive attitude to learn and improve on their umpiring over the three days.”
Christine Burrows, Umpire Coach for the BDAFL said of both Lachlan and Joseph’s achievements: “Both Lachlan and Joseph have made the big step up from Juniors to umpiring BDAFL Premier division games this year and have handled this very well, they are very dedicated umpires, work hard and it was great to see them get the opportunity to umpire at State level.
“I was thrilled to learn that Lachlan Head had been selected to represent NSW at the School Sport Australian Football Championships and then subsequently to be named All-Australian umpire.
“Lachlan has worked hard and umpired very well this season, and it’s great to see this has led him to State Representation”.
Lachlan’s focus will now turn to the BDAFL finals which commence this weekend.