The Wallaroo Football Club has created a custom goal flag device to help long-time club member Mark Depledge continue umpiring after losing his right hand to cancer, according to The Advertiser.
Depledge, 57, has spent nearly four decades involved with the club as a player, coach and volunteer. But after a six-year battle with the rare soft tissue cancer myxofibrosarcoma, he underwent an amputation earlier this year, leaving him unable to continue goal umpiring in the traditional way.
Determined to keep him involved, the club hosted a “Mark Depledge Day” on Anzac Day, raising more than $2000 and unveiling a specially designed flag contraption that allows him to officiate using one hand.
“It’s good for me because it makes me feel useful at the club again,” Depledge said.
Joining the club as a junior in 1987, Depledge had once hoped to umpire at SANFL or AFL level. After losing his hand, he believed his time in the role was over.
“I thought I’d have to move on from goal umpiring but Jason and (vice president) Scott (Mumford) gave me the chance to continue doing what I enjoy,” he said to The Advertiser.
Club president Jason Niotis said supporting Depledge was an easy decision after everything he had contributed to the community over the years.
“We knew Mark was going through a tough time and wanted to give back after everything he’s done for the club,” he said.
The aluminium device, created with help from local company Sea Cruiser Fabrications, allows Depledge to raise both goal flags with his left hand.
With rehabilitation complete, he now plans to continue umpiring and volunteering alongside his children for the remainder of the season.
Source: The Advertiser
