After yet another crazy busy family day, we all had a night out at the footy. This is quite an unusual event for us as the game started after the kids usual bedtime AND we were at a match in which no-one actually supported the teams playing – Hawthorn and St Kilda. We were at the match because I was umpiring one of the Auskick half time games.
It was amazing. I have to admit that I am not the hugest fan of football, but who could turn down a chance to run around on the ground at Telstra Dome? The feeling of running out onto the ground in front of 40,000 or so footy fans was amazing. Admittedly, at least 39,000+ of those didn’t give a damn about the Auskick, but the was a fair contingent of family and friends of the 100 kids taking part that were cheering loudly and watching every moment in anticipation. Talk about adrenaline pumping excitement, my heart was pounding before we started!
The pressure of the game was astounding. Trying to make sure everyone had at least one kick, without trying to make the game rigged was much harder than I guessed, especially with a group of 7 year olds who all look pretty similar. Thankfully the coaches of the teams were able to help out and make sure everyone had a few kicks.
I hadn’t really thought about it during the ‘AFL approved’ training sessions nor in the lead up to the game that I would actually have to run to keep up with the game. I was surprised at how quickly the time on the field was. 15 minutes gone in a flash. (Why does it never seem that fast when I am watching other Auskick games?)
Anyway, I had a great time and all the kids were cheering and smiling so I think they enjoyed themselves too. It was great fun, I will sign up to umpire again!
