Julian Pinder Honoured with BFUA Life Membership

Jul 21, 2023

The Ballarat Football Umpires Association (BFUA) has bestowed Life Membership upon Julian Pinder, celebrating his remarkable contributions to the umpiring community.

For the past four years, Julian has served as the Assistant Field Umpire Coach, sharing his knowledge and experience to nurture the next generation of umpires. He has also been actively involved in various BFUA fundraising events, including the BNS Ball and sausage sizzles, where he has always lent a helping hand.

Not only is Julian a fantastic umpire, but he has also been a vibrant presence at the Whistleblower social function, taking on the role of Master of Ceremonies for the past two seasons. His charisma and ability to make the event enjoyable for everyone have made him a beloved member of the umpiring community.

With five BFNL Senior Grand Finals under his belt, including two as a boundary umpire and three as a field umpire, Julian has proven his abilities under pressure. His calmness and accuracy on the field have earned him the admiration and respect of players and fellow umpires.

Julian's dedication to upholding the values of the BFUA is evident in everything he does. He is known for his integrity, respect, and camaraderie, always going above and beyond to support his fellow umpires. His selflessness and commitment have made him a highly regarded figure in the association.

Having umpired over 300 games, Julian's longevity and passion for the sport are undeniable. The BFUA's decision to grant him Life Membership is a testament to his exceptional contributions and unwavering commitment.

Congratulations, Julian Pinder, on this well-deserved honour. Your impact on the umpiring community and your dedication to the sport will continue to inspire future generations of umpires.

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Launching the Women & Girls Umpire Experience Hub in Ballarat

04 Mar, 2024

Connecting, Learning, and Growing Together Seven Experience Hubs are set to open across Victoria this year, offering umpires a valuable opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired. The inaugural session of the Women & Girls Umpire Experience Hub will take place at City Oval Ballarat on Monday, March 18th from 6pm-8pm.

Ally Steenhuis Joins BFUA Board

12 Feb, 2024

The Ballarat Football Umpires Association (BFUA) is excited to welcome Ally Steenhuis to its board, marking a positive step as it seeks to increase female representation in its leadership. Ally's journey into umpiring began in 2020, where she found herself warmly welcomed into a supportive community despite lacking prior experience in football. Starting as a boundary umpire, Ally dedicated three seasons before venturing into field umpiring in 2023. Her hard work paid off with senior appointments in both the Central Highlands Football League (CHFL) and the Ballarat Football League (BFL), showcasing her talent and dedication. As part of Ally’s board portfolio, she has been appointed as the BFUA Women and Girls Umpiring Liaison, a role that connects her to AFL Victoria and other female counterparts across the state. In this position, she will focus on fostering inclusivity within the association, building relationships and supporting the BFUA to increase women and girls in its ranks. BFUA Chair Deb Sleep said Ally’s appointment was a testament to her professionalism and passion for umpiring, and in particular, her leadership in creating a welcoming environment for women and girls in the BFUA. “Ally is a welcome addition to the board, and we know she will represent both young people and women and girls with enthusiasm and compassion” Sleep said. During the offseason, Ally enjoys spending time with loved ones and indulging in her passion for cricket. Her diverse interests and commitment to community engagement make her a valuable addition to the BFUA board. Ally Steenhuis's appointment signifies a step forward for diversity and community engagement within the umpiring community. We look forward to her contributions and wish her all the best in this new role!