Essendon coach Brad Scott has voiced concerns regarding the AFL umpires’ unwillingness to accommodate a straightforward request amid scrutiny over Nate Caddy’s contact with an umpire. This incident occurred early in the third quarter during a game against the Suns when Caddy collided with umpire Robert O’Gorman, causing a notable commotion audible through the broadcast.
Umpire contact has been prominent in discussions across the league recently, particularly following a directive that players with four or more reports could face tribunal action. Caddy’s collision has once again thrust this issue into the limelight, noted by commentators such as Leigh Montagna, who argued that the incident wasn’t Caddy’s fault as he was merely attempting to position himself for play.
Following the match, Scott strongly defended Caddy, asserting he has no cause for worry regarding the incident. He emphasised that umpire contact is frequently a result of situations at ball ups, reiterating that Caddy should not be held accountable. He elaborated that he had long advised the AFL to reposition umpires away from the centre corridor, where players are often vying for the ball. Despite his efforts, he claimed the AFL has disregarded this suggestion, with a prior response suggesting umpires should simply be treated as “invisible.”
Scott highlighted the physical toll the collision took on Caddy, who was seen clutching his ribs in distress post-collision. Caddy required medical attention during the game, and Scott stated that the AFL’s review centre even directed Essendon’s medical staff to assess the umpire afterwards.
Continuing his critique, Scott lamented the systemic issue of player safety associated with umpire positioning. He questioned whether Caddy should be the one facing consequences for the incident, given that strategic requests to improve the situation have been repeatedly overlooked. He asserted there is a clear need for changes to prevent such occurrences in the future, emphasising that Caddy deserves no blame in this matter.