FRESH faces may be seen umpiring some of the region’s biggest games in next year’s Barossa Light & Gawler Football Association (BLGFA) as the league’s umpiring association is set to promote the next crop of first-grade whistle-blowers.
It has been three years since the last round of promotions, which has led to some shortages that have been manageable with one less game per round than usual due to Freeling’s withdrawal.
Barossa Light & Gawler Umpires’ Association vice president Greg Hill said a number of factors are behind the length since the last round of promotions, but it means the candidates have more than enough experience.
“We needed clarity to what the process was, and what the criteria was to give promotion,” he said.
“So we had a special meeting on Wednesday and it was unanimously voted to support head umpiring coach Mark Meils to decide the competencies and requirements in order to promote candidates this season.
“It’s anticipated there will be four field umpires, and up to seven boundary umpires who meet the criteria and will be appointed soon.”
It is unlikely the newly appointed umpires will be appointed to the upcoming finals series.