Tasmanian umpire Adam Reardon has been selected to make his AFL debut in this weekend’s clash between Brisbane and Melbourne at the Gabba.
Reardon made the move to Brisbane in January after landing an AFL contract late last year and is excited by the opportunity.
“I’m excited as much as anything at this stage. I wouldn’t say I’m nervous yet but I’m sure that will come as Saturday morning gets closer,” he said.
Reardon, who started umpiring at 14 years of age, has put in years of hard work, umpiring the last seven TSL grand finals and being recognised as Tasmania’s best umpire three years running.
“It has been a long road and there was always a little bit of disappointment every year when I wasn’t contracted.
“It’s good that such a long road is over. I am so happy to now have the chance and can’t wait to get stuck into it on Saturday,” Reardon said.
AFL Tasmania State Umpire coach Cameron Lee says Reardon’s debut is a testament to his work ethic and professionalism.
“It is fantastic to see Adam selected for his AFL debut. He has put in a lot of work over a long period of time and deserves the opportunity,” Lee said.
Round two of AFL action will have a strong Tasmanian presence with Reardon umpiring alongside fellow Tasmanian Mitchell LeFevre at the Gabba.
Tasmanian Nick Foot will also be officiating the clash between Fremantle and Essendon in Perth, while goal umpire Mark Ensbey has been named as an emergency for the match between Carlton and the Gold Coast Suns on Saturday afternoon.
These selections come after Tasmanian boundary umpire Rhys Goodyer officiated last weekend’s AFLW grand final.
Lee is encouraged to see such a strong Tasmanian representation.
“It is excellent to see such a strong Tasmanian umpiring presence in the AFL.
“Umpires can now see that they have a pathway towards umpiring in the AFL and AFLW via the Tasmanian State League and under-16 and under-18 national championships,” Lee said.