Representative selection is one of the highest honours available to VAFA umpires, and the VAFA is pleased to announce the appointment of its field umpires for the Big V representative matches against the Adelaide Footy League at Norwood Oval on Saturday, 6 June.
Following strong performances throughout the opening rounds of the season, John Collopy has been appointed as the field umpire for the Big V Men’s match, while Amelie O’Meara has earned selection for the Big V Women’s match.
John continues his impressive Big V history after representing the VAFA in Bendigo last season for the VAFA Prem B to Div 3 game vs Bendigo FNL. His appointment to the men’s match is a deserved reward for his excellent form in the opening seven rounds.
Amelie has enjoyed an outstanding start to the 2026 season, not only earning representative selection, but also a well-deserved mid-season promotion to the VFL.
While we are disappointed to lose Amelie from the VAFA for the remainder of the season, we are incredibly proud of her achievement and delighted that this opportunity has presented itself. Her selection to representative football and her promotion to the VFL are a testament to her hard work and the talent pathway available to VAFA umpires.
VAFA Umpire Operations Manager Stephen Privitera congratulated both umpires on their appointments.
“Representative football provides a fantastic opportunity for our umpires to showcase their abilities at State level and represent the VAFA with pride.
“John and Amelie have both worked incredibly hard to earn these appointments and are outstanding ambassadors for our umpiring program,” Privitera said.
The VAFA congratulates John and Amelie on their selections and looks forward to seeing them represent the Big V on Saturday.