FORMER AFL umpire Darren Goldspink has been appointed EFL Head of Umpiring.
Goldspink brings a wealth of experience to the role, following a decorated AFL umpiring career.
Between 1989 and 2008, he officiated in 371 games, including 37 finals and six Grand Finals. He was also named All-Australian Umpire in 1993, 1995 and 2005.
The 39-year-old has spent the past two years with South East Juniors as the league’s Umpires Manager, where he has coached and developed over 200 junior umpires.
Goldspink is excited about joining the EFL.
“After dealing with only a junior competition over the past couple of years, I’m really looking forward to getting involved in a senior competition,” he said.
Acknowledging the current state of the league’s umpiring program, Goldspink will be hoping to “improve the standard” even more in 2014 and beyond.
EFL CEO Phil Murton is thrilled to have someone of Goldspink’s experience on board.
“Darren has demonstrated the ability to be innovative in coaching and managing umpires in his time at South East Juniors,” Murton said.
“His umpiring record and experience, combined with his understanding of the challenges involved in managing and coaching umpiring at local level, make him an ideal choice for our umpiring group.”
With official pre-season umpires training underway, Goldspink will commence his role with the EFL in the next couple of weeks. He will work full-time during the season and part-time in the off-season.