“I love being able to stand in the middle of the ground and watch some of the most talented players go about their work. Seeing it all up close and personal is awesome.”
Not a bad view, right?
For Brayden Seabourne, umpiring started as a way to stay involved in cricket on Sundays after playing with University Cricket Club. But what began as something casual quickly turned into something much more meaningful, largely because of his dad.
Brayden picked up umpiring three season ago after watching his dad, Craig take the same path when Brayden was a teenager. He saw firsthand how far his dad progressed through the ranks and how special it was to see him officiating at a high level, even appearing on TV alongside some of Brayden’s favourite players.
His dad would often say he wished he had started umpiring earlier. So when Brayden had the chance to give it a go, it felt like an easy decision. It was not just about filling in time on Sundays, it was about following in his dad’s footsteps and making the most of an opportunity of becoming an umpire at such a young age.
What really makes Brayden’s journey special is that they got to share it together. In his first season, Brayden umpired three matches alongside his dad. Those games turned out to be his dad’s final season as an umpire, which made the experience even more meaningful. Those moments are something Brayden now looks back on as some of his favourite memories in cricket.
Pictured: Brayden and his dad Craig, umpiring together in Brayden’s first season
While he enjoys all forms of the game, Brayden has a clear soft spot for red ball cricket. He appreciates the patience and skill it takes to master it, both as a player and an umpire, and enjoys the challenge that comes with it.
In a short time, Brayden has already built a strong resume. He has officiated at the Under 16 Female National Championships (including the Final) in January 2026 and stood in the CTPL Women’s First Grade Final under lights at Ninja Stadium. Experiences like these show just how quickly he is developing.
But beyond the games and achievements, it is still the sense of connection that stands out most. That connection started with his dad and has continued to grow through the people he has met along the way.
“One of the best parts about umpiring has been the people,” Brayden said. “I’ve met some amazing umpires and genuinely great people. At every event I’ve made close friends for life. I’ve caught up with them interstate and built really strong connections within the TCUSA as well. Being able to share the journey with people on the same path has been a highlight.”