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Added: 27 October 2008
Former St Ives Junior to trial for 2009 AFL Umpires List
Former St Ives Junior player and umpire Matt Gestier is the only NSW/ACT umpire to be asked to trial for next seasons AFL umpires list - this is a remarkable achievement.
Matt Gestier started umpiring in 1999 whilst still an Under 14 player for St Ives. In those days the umpires actually trained at Acron Oval and Matt started with other new umpires in the group trained by Phil Edwards. He showed considerable talent from an early age, and progressed rapidly through the ranks. He umpired the Northside Under 16's Grand Final in 2001 in only his 3rd season of umpiring and whilst still an Under 16's player with St Ives. He was also a recipient of Northside's Golden Whistle Award.
Matt rapidly progressed to umpiring in the senior ranks of the Sydney Football League where he has now umpired in 3 Premier 1st Grade Grand Finals (2003, 2004, and 2008). Among his many achievements he was also selected by the AFL to umpire at the 2008 National Under 18's Championship carnival, and this year was also chosen as the SFL's Golden Whistle Award winner.
Matt has also overcome significant adversity along the way. His running and fitness levels were severely affected by stress related leg injuries in 2005 and he was forced to dramatically cut back on his workload and re-align his objectives. Undaunted he persevered and gradually overcame his own personal challenges, and had arguably his most successful year in 2008.
Matt's journey has been one of dedication, commitment and perseverance. Yet through it all he has always been a very approachable and humble young man, and is still more than willing to assist and communicate with other young umpiring aspirants.
He is a fine example of why the St Ives Club exists in the first place, and his story is an inspiration to others. Matt - we are all very proud of you.
