A reserves player in the Kyabram District Football League (KDFL) has been sensationally suspended for 15 years after making contact with an umpire in July.
Rushworth Tigers player Martin Forde has been suspended until 2033 after the KDFL's independent tribunal issued the 15-year suspension on Wednesday night.
The incident occured during Rushworth's clash with Ardmona on July 22, after Forde pushed an umpire with both hands in the face after a free kick was paid against the Tigers.
The umpire in question was also verbally abused before he was pushed down, and the game was subsequently called off at quarter time.
Goulburn Valley Football Umpires Association president Darren Meek praised the decision handed down by the tribunal, and suggested they handled the incident in the  right manner.
"I think it sends a clear message to players and officials that touching or striking, or any offence against an umpire, and you're going to serve a very severe penalty," Meek told sheppnews.com.au.
"The independent tribunal behaved in a very professional manner and handled a very difficult situation very well.
"They've sent a message out to the football community that behaviour like this will not be tolerated."
