TOPIC:

Shock news to hear former WA umpire Mike Ball has passed away at the very young age of 66 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Ball, Buckey Capes Powell I remember those as the big four we all loved to hate in the 70’s and 80’s. R.I.P Mike Ball and thank you for your service to the WAFL. 

Probably the best umpire in the WAFL in the late 1970's and most of the 1980's. Rarely had a bad game, and from all reports had a great rapport with the players and coaches on and off the field. Condolonces to his family and friends.

Top bloke and a very good communicator. Worked hard for umpiring all over WA. Loved taking the pi55 out those AFL nobs who in his eyes were ruining the beautiful game of football. Keep bouncing them straight cobber.

RIP Mike.  Ended up becoming probably the best in his era.

A terrible disease that could strike anyone. Very sad. He was a good umpire in an era when the WAFL was of a higher standard and crowds were larger. RIP

A really sad way to go for such a good bloke and ump - it's such a demeaning disease that robs people of their dignity 
Rest gently mate 

Gee that is a shock.
Mike Ball was one of the best umpires I have seen in my time.
Had a good rapport with the players and got decisions correct most of the time and didnt guess or favour.

R.I.P Mike