THE PULSE — 19 June 2026

Umpire Appreciation Round showcases record growth

The VAFA community will come together this weekend to celebrate Umpire Appreciation Round. Umpires play a vital role in our game and make it possible for the many teams in our competition to run out each week.

On this special weekend, clubs are encouraged to showcase the umpires appointed to their games. Clubs can show their support of the Umpiring group by acknowledging their role on game day, forming a guard of honour, shaking hands with umpires and inviting umpires into club rooms for post-match functions. Clubs are also encouraged to share images of umpires on social media throughout the week. Whilst it’s an ideal time to recognise the 635 registered league umpires, it’s also vital to highlight the significant contribution of club umpires who volunteer their time each week.

The VAFA Umpiring Program has experienced record growth over the past five years, with registrations increasing 46% from 433 in 2021 to a record 635 in 2026. Overall umpire numbers have also increased by 4% in 2026, allowing for expanded coverage levels. This milestone reflects years of strategic investment and hard work within the umpiring program. Record umpire participation numbers have been achieved through the introduction of innovative recruitment initiatives, school-based academies, strengthened junior pathways and targeted marketing campaigns.

It is great to see a significant number of younger umpires joining the competition as boundary and goal umpires. These roles are the perfect introduction for students and provide a strong platform for them to get involved in umpiring. The VAFA also continues its long-standing junior league relationship with the South Metro Junior Football League (SMJFL). All Monday night training sessions have a youthful focus with a joint training session held with the SMJFL umpires. We thank our hardworking umpire coaches for the many hours they spend training new and developing umpires throughout the season.

In further exciting news, the VAFA Umpires Association (VAFAUA) is celebrating its 100-year milestone in 2026, marking a century of officiating in the VAFA. To commemorate the occasion, the association is hosting its major event of the year, the VAFAUA Centenary Dinner. This special event will be held at the Lakeside Pavilion in Albert Park on Thursday, July 9 starting at 6.30pm. Clubs are welcome to attend the function and support the VAFAUA by purchasing tickets here.

Umpire Appreciation Round is also an opportunity to reinforce the importance of creating a positive and respectful match day environment for all participants, including umpires. While the majority channel their passion towards encouraging their team, unfortunately some instances still take place involving abuse of umpires by players, coaches and supporters. Nobody sets out to make mistakes in a footy match. Please think twice before yelling at an umpire: think about how you’d feel if yourself, a friend, or family member was on the receiving end of it.

We wish all VAFA umpires the best for this Umpire Appreciation Round, enjoy your games, run well and thank you for your dedication to the competition each week.

Stephen Privitera, Umpiring Operations Manager