Crute appointed as WAFC Umpiring ManagerMonday, January 22, 2018 - 12:43 PM

The West Australian Football Commission has confirmed the appointment of West Perth Football Club CEO David Crute as WAFC Umpiring Manager.

The new role has been added as a key recommendation of the WAFC’s recent Structural Review of Football and will commence on January 31.

WAFC CEO Gavin Taylor said that David would be a valuable addition to the WAFC’s restructured umpiring department in a key leadership position tasked with overseeing the development of WA’s community and WAFL umpires.

“David has almost 20 years of leadership experience in football as a WAFL club CEO, Community Development Manager at Fremantle Football Club, WAFC Development Manager, WAFL assistant coach and accredited Level Two Umpire,” Mr Taylor said.

“This skill set will add tremendous value to our umpiring department as we aim to deliver enhanced career pathways for umpires alongside our players and coaches.

“The development and retention of umpires is critical to the ongoing success of WA Football and to have someone of David’s caliber overseeing this important segment of the game is a fantastic outcome,” he said.

Mr Crute said he was looking forward to commencing in the role and beginning the next chapter of his WA Football career.

“This is a great opportunity to positively influence the direction of a vital part of the football industry,” he said.

“I am passionate about fostering the integral role that umpires play in the game and the importance of their value being recognised and respected.

“While implementing the reforms that came out of the Strategic Review of Football will certainly be challenging, it’s also an exciting time for WA football, and I want to be part of it. The fact that the importance of developing umpiring was considered a key focus along with players and coaches is very encouraging.

“We have the opportunity to bring umpiring in WA all under the one umbrella. This will enable us to develop clear pathways for umpires at all levels and give us the ability to provide the best possible education, training and accreditation programs.

“The ultimate goal is to attract, retain and develop the best umpires possible. By developing appropriate reward and recognition strategies and creating a positive environment that builds trust and empowers people to make the best possible decisions, everyone in football will benefit.”