Association president Geoff Knight said he would love to see some ex-players come on board for the season but admits it’s hard to get players to become a man in white.
"Everybody wants to play but nobody wants to umpire," Knight said.
The shortage has come about due to a couple of reasons.
Firstly, some umpires have moved on plus there’s also the need this year for more umpires due to an increased amount of matches to be played each weekend with Macleay Valley entering the competition and Camden Haven adding another team.
Knight said the umpiring program is one he’d like to see building alongside the increased player participation numbers.
"It’s not just for the young guys who are looking to make some money on the weekends, it’s for the older guys who aren’t able to play anymore but still want to remain involved in football," he said.
"For most of us that are umpires, that’s how we got involved.
"Umpiring is a great way to still be involved in football and keep yourself fit as well."
While the current low numbers in the umpiring ranks are a concern, Knight said a massive influx of numbers isn’t required to solve the issue. One new umpire from each of the clubs would fit the bill nicely.
"If we could get half a dozen new umpires it would be fantastic," he said.
"If we had half a dozen join up it would mean you don’t have to be there to umpire every weekend and we could have a couple on standby."
Those interested in perhaps becoming the man in the middle can contact Knight on 0419 493 490 for more information.
By BRAD GREENSHIELDS – Coffs Coast Advocate
Last Modified on 21/02/2014 17:56