VAFA Umpires wrap up Pre-Season club visits

As part of the VAFA’s Pre-Season Umpire Club Visit Program, a number of clubs had umpires attend training to officiate a match simulation.

The 2026 aims of the program were to foster respectful relationships among umpires, players, and coaches, ultimately enhancing the game-day experience for everyone involved.

These pre-season sessions played a key role in educating players and coaches on the updated 2026 Laws of Australian Football and new VAFA on-field rules, ensuring all players enter the season with a clear understanding of the AFL’s evolving rules and interpretations.

Delivered in an interactive environment, umpire visits provide clubs with the opportunity to gain clarity on key rule changes, including the interpretation of the last disposal rule and updated ruck contest rules.

These sessions allow players and coaches to ask questions, explore real-game scenarios, and better understand how rules will be applied throughout the season. This proactive approach not only supports smoother on-field decision-making, but also reduces confusion during matches.

The VAFA thanks all the appointed umpires, and the following clubs for their involvement in the Umpire Visit Program:

A reminder that clubs have access to a range of video resources on rule changes via the umpiring section of the VAFA portal.

How to join VAFA Umpiring

• To express your interest in joining VAFA umpires ahead of the 2026 season, please complete the EOI form here

• New umpires are welcome to join the VAFA via this registration link: registration-afl.officialshq.com

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in contact with us via: Stephen Privitera, VAFA Umpire Operations Manager. Email: [email protected]