FOR boundary umpire Dominic Bourke, the greatest moment of his career to date came just a couple of weeks ago.
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The 28-year-old had the chance to officiate in the same match as his father, central umpire Bernie Bourke, for the first time.
“That was a big achievement to do with him,” Dominic said. “He’s had one of his hips replaced three times. It’s a big achievement for Dad to come back from (that).”
Dominic, who is set to officiate his 300th game in Sunday’s Hampden senior elimination final, is relishing his return to umpiring.
After starting out as a boundary umpire 11 years ago, he spent five years away from the role, opting for a change in pace and playing the game he loves for four season. He spent one year with East Warrnambool, before moving to Russells Creek for three seasons.
But a move back into umpiring seemed inevitable for Dominic, who was continuing a family tradition.
He first took up umpiring as so much of his family was involved – and it was a way to earn some extra pocket money as a teenager. “My whole family was involved,” Dominic said. “Dad was a central umpire and he was on the board, and family members were boundary umpires.”