POP’S CHAT
BE AN INFLUENCER!!
In the olden days we even had influencers then….but, we called them ROLE MODELS.
The very high standard of professionalism and respect our Association has in the football community comes from a long tradition of values that now form the framework of our Association vision statement.
As umpires, we are all about engendering RESPECT, TEAMWORK, INTEGRITY, EXCELLENCE & FUN—We all share our love of football.
We all learn and project from our relationships with each other…we are role models for the young, role models for each other and role models for the Association.
Currently we ask all umpires to start preparing seriously for the finals . As an Association, we truly aim for the best presentation, performances and conduct of our whole fraternity.
This is the time of the season where we manage extremely important and high pressure games as umpires. Every umpire wants to perform well. Every umpire wants to be involved in those high stakes games with big crowds and lots of excitement.
Our very best performers are our grand final umpires in every grade, who in many respects are rewarded for their seasons work.
Make no mistake about it however, Grand Final appointments are about current performance levels .
Stake your claim to this year’s finals appointments by the way you perform and also the way you model your behaviours as influencers and role models.
POP’S OFF
This is the last Pops Chat for the season. I am about to undertake a long-planned and awaited holiday to WA, exploring the west coast.
It has been my absolute privilege to serve this wonderful Association and work to develop our umpires. You are a terrific group and I feel honoured to have had the chance to work alongside of you.
May I also commend the work of your coaches, selectors and our Operational Lead. I will always be “old school,” but the new selection process this season has been fair , equitable and inclusive…everyone has had a fair go.
I hope to be back in time to see the 2 final GF’s
Best wishes to you all in your finals quests. POP
To View Previous Pops chat click on the dates
7th April 2026 - Pops Chat 1
13th April 2026 - Pops Chat 2
FIELD UMPIRES NOTES
26/7/26 -
TRENDS:
1. Loud, decisive and strong whistle blasts.
2. Signal and call the free kick after whistle so players understand what the whistle is for.
3. Be alert in “stand rule” to kicker deviating off the mark… call play-on QUICKLY.
4. Always get in quick to packs for ball ups and potential hot spots.
5. Tap through half forward line set kicks.
6. COMMUNICATE change overs. Do not tap on the blind side.
7. Consistent, straight and high ball ups. (Watch rucks not the ball up.)
8. When handing over play don’t d stop and prop…keep moving and re-position.
9. For holding ball signal do not pirouette the signal and take eyes off play.
10.Ensure you warm up and limber up effectively before games
and your 3rd Q.
GOAL UMPIRES NOTES
26/7/26
1. Signals to be decisive, waist height and for a goal hold for 3 seconds (1.5 secs for point)
2. Keep your non-involved arm when signalling and point flag waving at your side…not bent up or out like a chooks wings
3. After a point is scored, mark card on second act of play not during the kick out.
4. Be sure you get an all clear before you signal
5. Come to attention when you reach the line
6. At all times where possible, be UNDER the flight of the ball
7. Be active in general play…no hands in pockets, behind back, propping…make position and move constantly.
8. Be aware of your flag angles when they are raised. (11 &1 o’clock for goals)
9. Acknowledge verbally your boundaries when they reach the post for a set kick
10. 3 clear taps for touched and minor score signals.
GOAL HISTORY