HOWZAT? Not present. That’s the reality local cricket would face without officials, which is why the Upper Hunter Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association (UHCUSA) is looking for new members.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
With the Scone-based competition expanding to include two Muswellbrook teams in the Upper Hunter District Cricket Association, UHCUSA is looking for extra numbers to support the increased demand.
UHCUSA president Steve Eccles said the group was in great need of more help, and is appealing for anyone interested to come along and find out what it’s all about.
“A lot of them [current officials] don’t umpire on a weekly basis, so we’re always short of umpires and we’re always encouraging newcomers in the system,” he said.
They’re running free courses to allow people to obtain a local umpiring ticket, while Eccles is urging those who are keen to take their career further to sit for a state ticket, which provides more opportunities.
He stressed that officiating doesn’t mean you have to stop playing either, as they can control proceedings for juniors or Sunday games and play on Saturday afternoon, or vice-versa.
He also knows potential umpires don’t want to do it for nothing, and said there are financial benefits that makes the time worth it.
Payments can range between $90 and $130, which is sufficient pocket money to spend your afternoon enjoying a game of cricket, according to Eccles.
He said it’s a good way to meet people and even witness the rise of future stars, which is something that’s extremely gratifying.
“We see some of the best cricketers,” he added.
“I’ve umpired state players and I’ve umpired people who have ended up in international cricket, so it’s rewarding.”
There is no official age limit, with a state ticket only costing $20 to apply for and the local version is free.
Eccles urges anyone considering the idea in the region to contact him on 0400 808 873.