Umpire Craig Abela has dedicated his first AFL Cairns grand final appointment to the man who helped him get there, saying outging AFL Cairns umpires boss Mathew James was like the "Kevin Sheedy" of his field.
It's a massive call, but Abela said it was James' professionalism that had impacted the entire squad and helped him overcome some mid-season injuries to be selected for tomorrow's decider.
Abela will umpire alongside experienced pair Ben Koch (nine finals and seven in a row) and Rowan Tattersall (third consecutive).
"On Monday when I was announced I probably didn't have the nerves I have now, but finals is certainly another level and there's a lot on the line, so it's exciting," Abela said.
"Without a doubt I worked harder because of (three-time AFL grand final umpire) Matty. It's like a footballer being coached by Kevin Sheedy."
James said Abela's comeback since injury was so exceptional he was an automatic selection for the big game.
"He is one of the most dedicated umpires I've come across. He overcame injuries and cross-trained to be able to fight his way back," James said.
Last Modified on 11/10/2013 16:13