Tara Murray
It was a family affair on Saturday in the Riddell District Football League match between the Western Rams and Wallan.
Three Balding siblings were among the umpiring crew for the senior match, while their father Peter got involved in the action in the reserves game earlier in the day.
Riddell Umpires president Addam Icely said it was a pretty exciting day.
“Maurice Balding umpired his first senior game in the goals at 14 years old,” he said.
“He is in his second year of umpiring and he has a bright future. He currently plays junior football at Eynesbury.
“Joining him in the seniors was sister Genevieve debuting on the boundary in the same senior game.
“Genevieve commenced with Riddell Umpires in the goals five years ago and decided at the start of this year to give boundary umpiring a crack and her commitment and improvement has come along quicker than expected.
“Maurice and Genevieve were joined by older sister Audrey in the goals in the same game too. Audrey is in her third season and has been a regular fixture on the senior panel for a season and a half.”
The three followed their father Peter Balding into umpiring. Until recently, Peter held the Victorian Football League goal umpiring record, with 235 games.
On Saturday, Peter joined Audrey in the reserves game between the goals.
Icely said they were always looking for new umpires to join the association with a growing number of teams in the area.
He said it was a good way to spend time with your family and make some money while you’re at it.
“We encourage all families to come along and give umpiring a crack for enjoyment, fun and fitness.”
