AFL Cairns umpires boss Matthew James will return to Melbourne at season's end, citing family reasons for his resignation.
The multiple premiership umpire was a coup to the league when he moved north at the start of the season and has developed a strong unit of umpires this season.
But James said the fact his family was in Melbourne made it an easy decision.
"I've loved my time up here and I'll stay involved with the league - I will probably come up and umpire at some point next season - but your family comes first."
Thirty-five umpires turned up for a Sunday recovery session at Stony Creek after Saturday's semi-finals, evidence of the passion they have for the job.
"They are a great bunch and we've seen some improvements this season, that's for sure."
Last Modified on 04/10/2013 10:36