VAFA Umpires achieve Women & Girls Chartered Club status

The VAFA is pleased to announce that the VAFA Umpires have officially been recognised as a Women & Girls Chartered Club by the AFL.

The Charter is a commitment from the VAFA to continue to provide a welcoming, safe and inclusive environment for Women and Girls.

This charter sets out the expectation that Community Football Leagues, Clubs and Umpiring Groups will champion women and girls guided by the following principles:

• Opportunity
• Visibility
• Access 
• Investment

VAFA umpire staff and female umpire leaders have participated in AFL Victoria workshops that provided valuable insights and education on inclusive club practices. There was also the opportunity to collaborate and share ideas with other metropolitan football leagues.

Following on from a successful 2024, the VAFA will continue its Female Umpire Academy program in 2025.

The Academy is a female support network that aims to create an environment that allows female umpires to feel welcome, valued and equal. Participants will hear from guest speakers including AFLW umpires, engage in a variety of social events and receive specialist coaching support.

Umpire Recruitment is now open for next season and new umpires can join the VAFA (and Female Umpire Academy) at:

https://registration-afl.officialshq.com

If you have any questions about VAFA umpiring or would like to join our team, please contact Stephen Privitera, VAFA Umpire Operations Manager via [email protected]