Whether he is calling the shots on the ground, working his magic behind the sticks, or coaching the next generation of umpires, McLeod has had a profound effect on local football in the Goulburn Valley region.
So when he walked out on to Deakin Reserve last Saturday for the clash between Shepparton and Mansfield, the local community was given a chance to celebrate his achievements, as he notched up his 400th game with the Goulburn Valley Football Umpires Association.
Speaking after the clash, McLeod said it was an honour to reach the 400-game milestone.
“It is a great feeling to have done my 400th senior game with the GVFUA,” McLeod said.
“I have been umpiring for 29 years and have done over 1000 games across the journey, but it is a real honour to be part of the GVFUA and be able to umpire at such a high level.”
Assuming his position behind the goals, McLeod had a busy day, with the harsh winds bringing about plenty of erratic shots at the sticks.
“There were a few extra nerves going into the game, but once I got settled into the game it was just like a regular Saturday for me,” he said.
“Being down the scoring end (the Shepparton United end), there was a fair bit of action, which made the day all the more enjoyable for me.”
An umpiring stalwart in every sense of the word, McLeod described why he loves pulling on the green and officiating local football.
“I wasn’t a footy player and my dad is one of the foundation members of the GVFUA, so he got me into it and I’ve never looked back,” he said.
“I just love the camaraderie, the teamship and support I’ve received from the umpiring community, it has been a great way for me to excel myself over the years.”
In an umpiring career spanning almost 30 years, he said there had been plenty of highlights both on and off the field.
“Being able to do four GVL senior grand finals would have to be the highlight, 2009 was my first one and I did my last in 2012,” he said.
“I have done plenty of senior finals, I’ve been the goal umpire coach, and have just met so many great people along the way.
“Being part of the mentor program and helping young umpires come through has also been great, seeing that next generation get into umpiring has been very rewarding.”
As for whether he can see himself getting to 500 games and beyond, McLeod said he would love to umpire for as long as he could.
“I hope I can hang around (for another 400 games), I was doing thirds as a field umpire and senior goals but I think I’m going to cut back a little and just stick to goals,” he said.
“The mind is willing but the body is getting a bit sore, but hopefully I’ve got another 20 years left in me.”
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