Umpiring organisations in the Goulburn Valley and surrounds continue to build on the advancements made in the last 12 months.
2023 was a bumper year after a pair of new training centres opened in the Murray region, while the Female Umpire Academy got up and running as well.
The 2023 GVL grand final was a historic scene from an umpiring perspective, with boundary official Erica Hayes the first female appointed to help oversee a senior grand final in league history.
AFL Goulburn Murray regional director of umpiring Andrew Moore is buoyed by the influx in support, but sees a higher ceiling for umpire participation.
“We are in a good spot, but the more, the merrier. If we are comparing to last year, we are in a better position,” Moore, himself a 2023 GVL grand final umpire, said.
“We would like an extra recruitment group to join in.”
Beyond the encouraging numbers, though, Moore spruiked the many health benefits of donning the lime green and getting involved as a local umpire.
“Not only do you get to build your fitness, but you get to be in a team environment, an inclusive environment, with males and females aged 12 to whatever age you’re still mobile,” Moore said.
“You can be someone who is an elite athlete or you can be someone who likes to go for a slow walk; there’s something for everyone.
“It’s an inclusive way for anyone to participate in a great game and get as close to the game as you will ever get.”