Wanted - A few good umpires

If you are wondering how to fill in those Saturdays, have a liking for the game of cricket and a desire to test yourself under pressure then Northland Cricket's Dean Potter wants to hear from you.

Potter, a former board member and first-class cricketer has been scouring the traps for the past 12 months in an effort to boost Northland Cricket's umpiring stocks. Unfortunately, the cupboard is bare and to raise the awareness of the shortage he has turned to the Northern Advocate for help.

"I've been to bowling clubs, rest homes, golf clubs, rung ex-cricketers and even advertised in the classifieds," Potter said.

"I've tried everything I can think of but with no success. My aim was to get 15 umpires, creating a group of umpires that can use umpiring as a social outlet whilst providing a much wanted service to the club cricketers. That would also mean that umpires don't need to umpire every weekend," he added.

Many people see umpiring as a thankless task but Northland Cricket umpire Kevin Salmon refutes that.

"I have found umpiring really rewarding, I can't do every weekend as I watch my children's sport but I get involved as often as I can. The more umpires we have the easier it is to do. I know the players really appreciate umpires and as a past player its nice to give something back and, more importantly, it's the best seat in the house."

Potter was known as a tester of umpires and laughs when asked if he's a poacher turned gamekeeper.

"It's a tough job and you do need to be a little bit thick-skinned, but with the right training and the right attitude it can be very rewarding." Potter added that all the gear and uniforms are provided as well as a standing fee and travel reimbursement.

Potter also pointed out there is a career path available for an umpire prepared to start at the bottom and work up. Promotion to the Hawke Cup panel, the first class panel and then to the international scene is not unheard of. Domestic, first class umpires are well rewarded for their efforts and NZ's Billy Bowden is a full-time umpire on ICC's Elite Umpires Panel.

If you have an interest in cricket and want to get involved, contact Northland Cricket's Dean Potter on 459-5556. Northland club cricketers would love to hear from you.