With the 2019/20 NTFL season fast approaching, the annual NTFL Umpires Come and Try night is happening at 5:30pm this Tuesday 27 August on TIO Oval 2.
In 2018/19 a record number of umpires across the Territory were needed, with almost 500 registrations recorded. This season, NTFL umpires are looking to build the umpiring community within Territory football, keeping up with the demand of an expanding season fixture.
Umpiring is a great way to keep fit, learn the rules of the game, make friends and get paid. NTFL umpires also get paid, earning from $25 to nearly $200 a game, so some umpires view it as a great opportunity to earn extra money over the NTFL season.
The upcoming Come and Try night is open to everyone over the age of 13 to come down and give umpiring a go. The evening will consist of a range of umpiring activities, skills, lots of prizes and giveaways and if you enjoy all that, then an opportunity to sign up as an NTFL umpire on the night.
With the majority of umpires also players in NTFL teams, the weekend appointments process considers game schedules to ensure everyone can, play one day and umpire the next.
There are no prerequisites to become an umpire with no previous umpiring experience or knowledge around Australian Football necessary, umpire coaches are on hand to teach newcomers and coach more experienced umpires.
In 2019, there were five senior NTFL umpiring coaches, leading into the coming season there are 19, ensuring there are coaches available to spend the time required to help develop and mentor new up and coming umpires.
AFL Northern Territory Umpire Manager, Andrew McBean, is excited for the start of the NTFL season and expanding the umpiring group.
“As the game grows, so do the umpiring numbers and our aim is to keep up with the demand. With the addition of new rules, it has changed the game, and this has brought an exciting and positive vibe to training,” McBean said.
The Come and Try night is open to anyone who would like to be involved, you do not have to register to attend.
Regular training sessions for umpires are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5.30pm at TIO Stadium. For more information on how to get involved please contact Sam Cunningham, AFLNT Umpiring Development Coordinator Samuel.cunningham@afl.com.au, 0447 479 174 or visit Umpire.AFL here.
