On behalf of the Hampden Football-Netball League, South Warrnambool FNC and the Warrnambool & District Umpires Association would like to announce that John DeGrandi will be umpiring his 800th club match for South Warrnambool FNC this weekend in the under 18 match against Camperdown FNC.

John started at the South Warrnambool FNC as a 17 year old to play for the U18's in 1971, however with South having a very strong Under 18 team that year John started to run as the boundary umpire on the weeks he missed a game.

He has always shown a strong affinity and admiration for the U18 players as they move through the ranks. He trains with the juniors every week and apart from his short break due to cancer; John has been actively involved in the club for 57 years.

He has been recognised many times at South Warrnambool for his commitment and dedication to his duties and his loyalty is unquestionable. One of John's strengths is his positive attitude; never do you hear him speak negatively about anyone or anything and he constantly looks on the bright side.

He is a life member and legend of the South Warrnambool FNC, is also a life member of the Hampden league and will be presented with a VCFL Recognition of Service Medallion at the clubs Thursday night dinner this week.

Further, in recognition of John's efforts, the league and the Warnambool & District FUA upon request of the South Warrnambool FNC, will also hold a "legends of umpires" day to recognize the many umpires that have officiated over an extended period.

As such over 10,000 games of experience will be on hand to officiating all 3 matches on the day with many of these umpires had played football before switching to umpiring so they would have participated in plenty of footy over the years.

Well done to John.

Article first appeared www.vcfl.com.au 26 July, 2011