A MILESTONE is being reached by the Ballarat Football Umpires Association, also known as the BUFA, this July.<\/p>\n
The organisation is marking its 110th anniversary by bringing together current and former members along with friends and family to celebrate.<\/p>\n
The evening hosted at the Ballarat Leagues club will allow the community to reflect on the history of he BUFA and a dedication to the game of football which has lasted more than a century.<\/p>\n
BFUA chair Deb Sleep said the evening is an exciting opportunity for reflection.<\/p>\n
“The BFUA’s 110th anniversary celebration is a milestone that speaks to our enduring commitment to football and the umpiring fraternity,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe look forward to bringing together a diverse group of individuals who have dedicated themselves to the sport, as well as their loved ones.\u201d<\/p>\n
The evening will celebrate everyone who has helped the BFUA succeed over the years.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think this milestone demonstrates the longevity of the organisation which really says a lot about the integrity of the people during that time and what a wonderful base they\u2019ve built,\u201d said Ms Sleep.<\/p>\n
\u201c\u2019It\u2019s about appreciating those that have done a lot of work in establishing the association.\u201d<\/p>\n
There\u2019s a big difference to how football looks and is played now, compared to 110 years ago, including greater involvement of women and girls in all ranks.<\/p>\n
\u201cMost recently there\u2019s been a lot of changes relative to a higher number of females being involved and looking to be included in the space which has generally been male dominated,\u201d said Ms Sleep.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think that\u2019s really refreshing.\u201d<\/p>\n
With a view to the future, the Ballarat Football Umpires Association is also now aiming for greater participation from younger people in the game and its key roles.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe see a lot more of our youth coming through that are really taking on some terrific roles now going forward which previously may have landed with more mature people in the association,\u201d said Ms Sleep.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s one of our goals to ensure our youth voices are heard.\u201d<\/p>\n
One hundred and ten years of the BFUA will be marked on Saturday July 15 at the Ballarat Leagues Club.<\/p>\n