MCFERRAN’S BIG MILESTONE
WRFL Umpire Henry McFerran will this weekend reach an extraordinary milestone – he will umpire his 1800th match.
After 49 years of umpiring in the WRFL, McFerran is set to officiate the milestone at the Under 18 Boys match between Caroline Springs and Point Cook at Taylors Run Oval.
McFerran described the the occasion as “just another game of football”.
“Umpiring has been a big part of my life and this will be a nice achievement,” he said.
McFerran has had a decorated history in the WRFL having served as either the secretary or president of the WRFL Umpires Association for close to 40 years. He is an Umpires Life Member, has been inducted into their Hall of Fame and became a league Life Member in 1994.
“There has been so many moments of the years,” he said.
“Football has been a big part of our family. It is in our blood. My wife got involved with football as a trainer at St Albans, my kids have played, and grandchildren play, so it has been a major part of our life.
“I still really enjoy umpiring; I do Under-18’s and juniors nowadays and mentor some of the Under 12’s – it keeps me fit. I haven’t lost the passion for it.
“I have met some great footballers over my time, met some terrific people on and off the field.”
McFerran believes there won’t be many people in the community who reach this achievement.
“The kids who umpire today, don’t stay in it for very long,” he said.
“Next year will be my 50th year and most likely my last, but we will see how we go.”
McFerran will be a field umpire in Saturday’s Under 18 Division 1 match between Caroline Springs and Point Cook at Taylors Run Oval at 10am.