In Western Suburbs District Cricket Club 3rd Grade game against Sydney Cricket Club one of our umpires was Geoff Garland. Geoff is 81 years of age.

Geoff first involvement with senior cricket in New South Wales began in 1961 and he’s been a players, umpire, and mentor ever since.

He started umpiring at the age of 50 and has umpired over 450 games for the Sydney Cricket Association. Geoff was awarded Life Membership of New South Wales Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association in 2019.

Saturday was a one day 50 over game and Geoff was at the top of his game. He engaged at the appropriate times, didn’t go looking for unnecessary noise and communicated and managed the game terrifically well. And he did it all with a smile.

It’s wonderful to see Geoff still umpiring as he’s a wonderful role model for all umpires and players. It was even better to see to see him so spritely and enthusiastic.

I dip my lid Geoff.