Another award for Taufel, named Aussie Official of the Year

Sydney, Feb 22 (UNI) After being the ICC Umpire of the Year for three consecutive years, Simon Taufel added another accolade to his name by winning the Official of the Year at the Australian Sports Awards in Melbourne.

Taufel, who won the award from other officials Mark Shield (soccer) and Scot Butler (basketball), said the recognition of umpires and officials was important to continue building the value of sport.

''Success is never achieved on your own and in my case it is no different. I take the opportunity to thank the New South Wales Cricket Umpires Association, Cricket Australia, my wife Helen and my three children, and the rest of my family and friends for their support and sacrifice,'' Taufel said after receiving the award last night.

''I would also like to pay tribute to the fellow umpires whom I stand with. Without their camaraderie, teamwork and complementary skills, there is no way I could achieve what I have achieved,'' he added.

Now in their 27th year, the Australian Sport Awards recognise Australian athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers and administrators across all areas of the sports sector who have achieve outstanding success in their field during 2006.

UNI