VALE - Ian Aitken

The world of cricket has lost one of its special people.

Ian Aitken, a 20-year Centurion, a true gentleman, and a selfless supporter of cricket throughout Victoria, passed away on Sunday 24 July after a short illness. He was 83.

Ian commenced umpiring in 1973/74 and umpired for 39 years. He umpired a staggering 527 Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association matches - 239 of them at First XI level.

Such was Ian's standing that he also umpired a PUMA CUP knockout Final; 12 VSDCA Group finals; a VSDCA First XI Championship final; eight 2nd XI Championship finals; 5 VSDCA Knockout Finals and 10 Hatch finals.

In 1983, he was awarded Life Membership of the VSDCA Umpires Association (where he served as President for 21 years) and was elected a Legend in the VSDCA Hall of Fame.

But, perhaps, Ian's true recognition came in 2000 when he was awarded the Australian Sports Medal for his services to cricket.

As a senior Umpire, Ian was more about "man management" and the "spirit of the game" than the strict application of "the rules".

He retained a sense of humour and, because he had an understanding of how the game of cricket should be played, he expected the highest standards from the players and officials. In return he received respect and recognition from those around him.

Nothing was too difficult for Ian where cricket was concerned. If an "official" umpire was needed for a scratch match or a charity game, or even if just a little advice was needed, Ian was only too willing to oblige.

He was a great "behind the scenes" contributor to the Centurions and will be sadly missed.

The Centurions passes on to Ian's wife, Dorothy, and his extended family its condolences.