by Gerard Bolton (EFL Junior Umpire Coach)
AS the sun rose over the Eastern suburbs on Sunday morning, the EFL Umpires ventured to Jubilee Park for the biggest challenge of their pre-season: a grueling boot camp run by the experts at Original Bootcamp.
While the physical activities at the six stations presented their own unique challenges, the key focus of the day was to build a sense of team and camaraderie among the group.
Many clubs have also been put through their paces by ‘Sarge’ and his crew. However the umpires require a tailored program catering to field, boundary and goal – all within a single activity.
This led to the TEAM mantra of the day – Together Everyone Achieves More.
It was quite evident as the session progressed that the team work desire to work together grew stronger. Each of the stations, designed by the Original Bootcamp team, were designed to have all umpires working hard and put under pressure and stress. This led to the teams working together, encouraging one another and always helping out our teammates.
Each of the staff conveyed that the final two groups were strong, giving evidence of the strength of the group working together.
The final test was a sadistically challenging lap of Jubilee Park with ropes, bricks, tyres and weight bags held above the head. To see a group get half way around then stop to focus on how to work better together then run the final stretch gives us an indication that our umpires are ready to go in 2014.
A challenging morning was had by all who attended. While it was a hard slog and both physically and mentally demanding, all who attended are better for the experience.
The strength of the group has clearly been enhanced.
WANT TO UMPIRE IN THE EFL?
We encourage former players, beginners and athletes, as well as those yet to confirm from last year, to get in touch with us and find a valuable place in the footyEFL community.
If you are interested in becoming an umpire in 2014, please contact EFL Head of Umpiring, Darren Goldspink at EFL House on 9762 5766 or email dgoldspink@efnl.org.au. Alternatively, head down to Croydon Athletics Track at 5:30pm on a Monday or a Wednesday to meet Darren and join in training.