Congolese pair Masange Runezerwa and Robert Ntagayisha have joined the umpiring ranks.

The duo, who arrived on the Border late last year as Runezerwa pursues his running career, have been training well and are keen to learn about Australia’s game.

North East-Border umpire development manager Mark Bywater said the pair proved umpiring was viable for anyone, of any background.

“They’ve been really enthusiastic about it and fitted in well,” he said.

“Our training is more professional.

“We have a lot of kids coming through, too.

Yet Bywater said the group was “always looking” for new umpires.

The North East Border Commission has taken over control of umpiring from the Albury Umpires League and Wangaratta Umpires Board.