Terry gets MCG grand final call up

Terry Eaton has umpired 17 local football grand finals but none will compare to stepping out on the MCG on the last Saturday in September.

The Great Southern Football League umpires’ boss has been selected to travel to Melbourne to oversee the nation’s junior umpires, who will officiate Auskick matches before the big match.

Eaton will co-ordinate and assist seven young green shirt umpires who will work on the big stage as well as participate in the AFL Grand Final Parade and receive a seat to watch the Grand Final.

Having umpired since 1995, Eaton said it would be the highlight of his time officiating the game.

“It’s on most avid footballer’s bucket list for sure,” he said.

“I’ve been there once before and it will be my first grand final.”

Eaton’s experience in mentoring young umpires was seen as a key reason why he was nominated by the WA Football Commission.

At the Landmark Country Football Championships in July he was presented with an outstanding achievement award for his dedication to the game. Eaton will be part of a solid umpiring trio who will control Sunday’s league preliminary final, stepping out with Steve Wiseman and Darryl Carpenter.

tim.edmunds@albanyadvertiser.com