Christchurch umpire announced as New Zealand’s favourite

MEDIA RELEASE
17 February 2016

Christchurch umpire announced as New Zealand’s favourite

Specsavers’ Favourite Local Cricket Umpire competition winner named

Eugene Sanders of Halswell, has been announced as the winner of the ‘Specsavers Favourite Local Cricket Umpire’ in a nationwide search by Specsavers and New Zealand Cricket (NZC) to recognise and reward unsung heroes of community cricket.

Taking out the title from a group of five other high calibre finalists, Eugene, 43, was victorious because of his dedication to being a committed and trusted umpire within his community.

“I’ve played cricket all my life, and when I was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease seven years ago, that was no longer an option. I immediately started thinking of other ways to be involved in the sport whilst also giving back to my community, which is why I made the decision to umpire” says Mr Sanders.

As part of his winners prize package, Eugene will have the opportunity to meet with some of the leading Elite Panel of ICC Umpires and learn tips and tricks from the best in the business.

“To be recognised as New Zealand’s favourite local umpire and receive such a prize is very humbling. I’d like to say a big thank you to Specsavers. I had just come off the field after umpiring a match in Christchurch when I heard the news, and it made my day! I’d also like to say a big thank you to my family, without their amazing support, I wouldn’t be able to do what I do. It’s an honour to receive such a title and I’m looking forward to meeting with, and learning a few tricks of the trade from some of my own heroes!”

NZC’s Head of Cricket, Lindsay Crocker, says, “Not only is Eugene an inspiring umpire in his own community, but he is also one of our New Zealand Cricket Reserve Panel Umpires, and has proved to be dedicated, capable, and passionate about our sport. It’s great to be involved in this initiative that puts our local cricket umpires in the spotlight.”

Eugene’s brother, Charne Christensen, nominated him and is over the moon with the results.

“Eugene has continued to give back to the cricket community even after he was diagnosed with a medical condition that prevented him from playing the sport he loves. This just proves how passionate and dedicated he is. No-one is as deserving as him,” Mr Christensen says.

Graeme Edmond, Specsavers New Zealand Director, says, “Specsavers is proud to put umpires like Eugene in the spotlight. We have been running this competition for five years, and every year we receive nominations for remarkable people who give up their own time to further club cricket in New Zealand. Thousands of volunteers like Eugene make grassroots cricket possible for New Zealanders.”

As the competition winner, Eugene will have a meet and greet with some of the leading Elite Panel of ICC Umpires, and another voucher for two pairs of designer glasses from Specsavers.

ENDS

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