Les Vearing Honoured with BFUA Life Membership

Jul 21, 2023

The Ballarat Football Umpires Association (BFUA) is pleased to recognise Les Vearing's exceptional contributions by awarding him with Life Membership of the association.

With over 24 years of umpiring experience, Les's dedication and embodiment of the BFUA Trademarks have made him an indispensable figure in the umpiring community.

Les Vearing's umpiring journey began in 1999, and he umpired for a decade with the Maryborough umpiring group before their merger with the BFUA. Les played a vital role in ensuring the successful integration of both umpiring groups, leveraging his leadership as the Secretary and Treasurer of the Maryborough umpires. His unwavering commitment and organisational skills were instrumental in achieving a unified and cohesive umpiring community within the BFUA.

Beyond the merger, Les continued to make significant contributions as the coach of the Maryborough/Castlemaine training hubs. He ensures umpires receive guidance and support through regular training sessions, especially for new umpires. Les's dedication to their development has greatly contributed to the consistent standards of umpiring across the leagues.

With over 500 games under his belt, Les's experience and expertise have earned him respect throughout the association. His fair and impartial decision-making has garnered trust from players, coaches, and fellow umpires.

Les Vearing's Life Membership to the BFUA is a reflection of his exceptional contributions and unwavering dedication. The association extends its congratulations and gratitude for his remarkable service.

As we celebrate Les Vearing's well-deserved Life Membership, the BFUA and the umpiring community thank him for his remarkable contributions and enduring passion for the sport.

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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!