The WRFL Umpires Association began its life as the Footscray District Football League Umpires Assoication (FDFLUA) in 1931 when the league was formed.
For 69 years the organisation represented umpires in the former FDFL and, when the league changed its name to the WRFL (now WFNL) in 2000 to better reflect the reality of its relationship to the western suburbs of Melbourne, the association changed its name accordingly.
The association works with the WFNL to provide umpires to all WFNL matches where possible. The association is run by an executive and is run by umpires, for umpires. It acts as a representative body to uphold the interests of umpires, as well as a social, training, advocacy, support and management organisation for umpires in the western region.
The WRFLUA is also known as a breeding ground for future VFL and AFL umpires, in particular boundary umpires, with 21 past and present VFL and AFL umpires having risen from its ranks.Some of these umpires include current AFL umpires Troy Pannell (field), Michael Craig (goal) and Shane Jones (boundary), as well as former umpire Mathew James who was widely considered to be among the best bouncers in the league.
A total of 3 current AFL umpires have their roots in the WRFLUA.
About the WRFLUA
In Profile
Ever wondered how those people in green out in the middle of the paddock got to doing what they're doing? Well... here's your chance to find out. Read More
