WFNL TO CELEBRATE UMPIRES IN ROUND 2

The Western Football Netball League is this week recognising umpires and their contributions to community football.

With more than 300 teams across the WFNL senior and junior competitions umpiring is an integral part of the game with the league having more than 400 registered umpires each year.

The league’s field, boundary and goal umpire ranks consist of people aged 11 to 75, with weekly training taking place at Yarraville’s Hanmer Reserve every Tuesday and Thursday night.

There are also training academies in place for the WFNL’s youngest umpires, located at McKillop College in Werribee, Point Cook’s Saltwater Reserve and Hogans Road Reserve in Hoppers Crossing.

With a focus on fast tracking young umpires into games and improving the overall standard of umpiring across the league, the WFNL has seen many umpires promoted to VFL and AFL ranks.

Amongst the most recent WFNL umpires to graduate to higher honours are Shannon Van Boven and Lachie Smith who are now VFL Development Squad members.

The WFNL is always looking for more umpires with all positions paid roles.

Western Football Netball League Director of Umpiring Steve Keating said there are many reasons to get involved in umpiring.

“Umpiring is a great way to be involved in football whether you have or haven’t played the game before and you’re doing it from one of the best seats in the house,” he said.

“We are committed to growing the number of umpires while ensuring we provide a safe and inclusive environment for all umpires.

“There are many benefits to umpiring such as building and maintaining fitness, improving your understanding of the game and developing life skills including communication skills, confidence and resilience.”

Anyone interested in umpiring can find more information and details on how to register HERE.

For further enquiries please contact WFNL Director of Umpiring, Steve Keating by emailing steve.keating@wfnl.com.au or calling 0421 613 130.