Umpire recruitment gets an ‘elite’ boost

AFL Umpire Ray Chamberlain with mambers of the North Coast coaching fraternity during the recent camp in Coffs Harbour.

 

“Physical fitness, you get to improve your communication, managing people, making decisions, leadership, and they pay you to do it!”

Six great reasons to get into umpiring local AFL that were given by “Razor” Ray Chamberlain when asked what’s behind his love of the role.

Chamberlain and the 41 other members of the AFL’s Field Umpire panel for 2023 were in Coffs Harbour across the weekend for a pre-season training camp, but also took time out to promote the benefits of taking up umpiring. 

Paul Taylor, Community Football Manager, said there is an ongoing need to expand the umpire ranks to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all participants.

“Everyone can Umpire – parents, current players, former players, even those who’ve never been involved with AFL. We have online and face to face training opportunities to bring people up to speed, and will pair them with experienced umpires while they learn the ropes,” Taylor said.

“The main thing that holds people back is the fear that they don’t know the rules, don’t know the positioning, don’t have the confidence. We’ll teach people the rules and positioning and that, in turn, will build the confidence.

“Across our Junior age groups and Senior grades there’s an age and gender group to suit everyone’s experience and confidence, and the umpiring fraternity is really supportive.”

In addition to the physical, social, and growth opportunities provided by umpiring, match officials receive tax free payment for each match. Payments range from $20.00 per match through to $80.00 per match, depending on the grade officiated.

To express an interest and take the first step towards umpiring, please click here.