Woody steps down as Umpire Operations Manager

The VAFA wishes to advise Brian Woodhead will step down from his position as Umpire Operations Manager in December after a storied career with our Association.

‘Woody’ joined the VAFA Administration for three years in the early 1990s, before accepting a role at VAFA sponsor, Sportscover, to assist their growth into the UK market.

He was appointed as a Director of Sportscover while continuing his involvement with the VAFA by assisting the umpire coaches.

Brian held other football roles such as General Manager of Coburg in the VFL, but his love of the VAFA and umpiring saw him accept the position of the VAFA’s Head of Umpiring at the start of the 2015 season.

VAFA General Manager of Football Operations & Umpiring, Brian Goodman, said Woody’s contribution to umpiring within the VAFA over the past three years has been significant.

“Woody’s commitment & passion for umpiring has been highlighted by his high work ethic and enhancement of the umpiring strategic plan that will provide a clear direction for umpires and umpiring well into the future,” Goodman said.

“He had a great ability to recruit, retain and cement umpiring as the place to forge an umpiring career within the VAFA for many years to come. The VAFA owes a lot to Woody’s commitment & vision.

“He will be missed, not only for his great contribution, but also for his wicked sense of humour.”

VAFA CEO, Brett Connell, said after having also served the Association in business development, marketing and sponsorship roles in a previous life, “Woody’s passion, drive, energy and ability to think outside of the square will be missed”.

“From an Administration view, we will miss his enthusiasm and upbeat nature and above all else his willingness to ‘bog in’ and help across all parts of the business,” Connell said.

“We wish him well with his future family business pursuits and congratulate him on the legacy he leaves at the VAFA overall.”

Brian will finish up on December 6 and we thank him for everything he has contributed to the VAFA.

In light of Brian’s departure, candidates wishing to apply for the role of Umpire Operations Manager should read the job advert below and send your applications to [email protected] by 5pm on Wednesday 6 December.

2017 Umpire Operations Manager Job Advertisement