David Brewster’s Journey as an Athletics NSW Official

18 May 2022

David Brewster’s Journey as an Athletics NSW Official

During NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK we are recognising our wonderful volunteers who include officials, club administrators and club coaches. Today we take a look at the journey and motivations of David Brewster - an Athletics NSW official.

ANSW: When did you first officiate for Athletics NSW and how did you get involved and how did your involvement grow over the years?

David: It was about 10 years ago I started officiating. I have been involved in athletics since I was 10 and at school ran middle distance (actually won English Schools title in 1000m steeplechase – which is no longer an event!). As a teacher I coached teams, organised and officiated at carnivals. Then with young kids I got involved with Little A’s at Winston Hills, eventually becoming a Life Member. Once my daughter had stopped her involvement in LA’s (she had been an athlete and then age manager) I decided to help out at senior athletics. I am very happy just helping out so I do not think my involvement has grown particularly – just content being part of a team!

ANSW: What sports have you been involved with and your hobbies, interests and work career outside of athletics?

David: I am still working full time as a secondary science teacher – something I still really enjoy even after 45 years. This limits the time I can devote to officiating. At various periods of my life I have been involved in a variety of sports – cricket, union, tennis, trampolining!! But running and basketball were my main sporting activities into my 30’s.

Between family, work and athletics most of my time is taken up. I enjoy theatre and movies for relaxation and travel (when we can) is great.

ANSW: What are and have been your major officiating roles and meets over your career?

David: I have been on the track team at State and National meets as well as Internationals meets like the Sydney Track Classic. These are always fun. As mentioned earlier – my roles are principally being a part of a team – acting as an Umpire or field judge. Very happy being told what to do!!

ANSW: During your career what have been your highlights and favourite moments and athletes?

David: The Invictus Games were a definite highlight – the whole atmosphere over the 2-3 days was just remarkable and the athletes, the interactions with the crowds and the performances were inspirational and moving.

ANSW: What brings you back each week?

David: I enjoy the feeling that I am making a contribution by allowing competition to take place. Any athletic event is a collaboration – it needs athletes and officials (and numerous others) to be working together to provide the opportunities for athletics to happen!

Also – for me – athletics is a chance for relaxation – I am doing something where my mind is not on my teaching work. I always feel after an event that I have had a real “break” and am more mentally refreshed!

ANSW: What are your future goals in athletics?

David: Really just to keep going! When I do get to retire, I will hopefully increase my involvement as part of a whole lifestyle thing. If any big events come along it may be good to be part of these e.g. Commonwealth Games, but this is NOT a priority! It is about keeping things fun.

ANSW: Thank you David for being one of our valued officials.

David Tarbotton for Athletics NSW
Image: David Brewster officiating at the Sydney 10 (image courtesy of David Tarbotton)