NEW ROLE: Michael Hurley is now umpiring director.

WDCA seeking better numbers for ‘09/10 season

Written by JEREMY WILSON.

THE 2009/10 Wangaratta and District Cricket Association season is almost here and the umpiring department is taking on a fresh look.

After many years of fine work in charge of the officials, Mick Johnstone has stepped down as umpire coordinator with Michael Hurley taking up the post.

Hurley said the association had picked up a few more umpires for this season believing he had a pool of 22 at the moment.

But Hurley said along with trying to increase the number of umpires in the competition, he was also hoping to rotate more officials through the competition’s A grade.

If all goes to plan, Hurley said he wanted to have a pool of around 10 umpires, which would all be umpiring in the A grade competition during the season.

Having more umpires able to umpire A grade is also moving towards the association’s strategic plan.

The plan aims to have enough umpires to officiate every game and also have two in some matches, which means Hurley is working towards building the number of umpires even further, up to 30 at least.

Since taking over the role as umpire coordinator Hurley, with the support of the association, has helped organise level one and level two umpiring courses.

Hurley said he had enjoyed the support he had received from WDCA executive and was looking forward to the start of the season.

Anyone interested in taking up or becoming an umpire is urged to contact Michael Hurley on 0428 219 347.