ASSOCIATION NEWS

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Posted 8th Jan 2021

It is with regret that we inform our Umpiring group that Director of Umpiring Scott Van Nordennen has accepted a full time role in another industry and will be finishing up in March this year. 

Scott has made an outstanding contribution to umpiring at community level and his departure is a significant loss for umpiring in both our region and across the state. Scott has agreed to stay on till March to ensure a full and comprehensive handover will occur and provide support for both staff and coaches taking over his role.

Scott’s departure will see the role of Director of Umpiring restructured in 2021, with the role to be split into two roles. The administration and management of all aspects of umpiring will be managed by AFL Outer East through a new role, Operations Coordinator.  AFL Outer East will also appoint a Head Coach, who will manage umpire development, training, and umpire coaches. This role will be advertised shortly, and we encourage our members to apply. Aaron Bailey and Scott Van Nordennen will manage this until an appointment is made. Applications for all coaching roles including field, Boundary, goals and juniors will open shortly.

Sebastian Mueller-Schmuki has been appointed as Operations Coordinator- Programs and will take over the off-field administration of umpiring. Sebastian, who has a degree in Exercise Science and Sports Management will also take on the key role of Strength and Conditioning for Umpiring. Sebastian has previous experience in this role at NAB League level with Eastern Ranges.

Pre-Season will begin in Mid-February. Stay tuned for updates!