This weekend, recently retired AFL umpire Chris Donlon will bring his wealth of experience to the field in the 2024/25 TIO NTFL Round 5 Women's Premier League clash between Tiwi Bombers and Nightcliff Tigers.
Born in Sandringham, southeast of Melbourne, Donlon’s umpiring journey began in 1989 with the Moorabbin Saints Junior Football League. He quickly advanced to the Victorian Amateur Football Association and, by 1997, was officiating in the Victorian Football League. His AFL debut came in 2005, overseeing the match between Hawthorn and Brisbane.
Over his career, Donlon established himself as one of the AFL's premier umpires, officiating an impressive 422 games, including a Grand Final, before retiring in July 2024. In 2017, he earned the Bishop Shield, the highest honour for umpires, which recognises excellence both on and off the field as well as dedication to the craft.
Donlon is also a life member of the AFL Umpires Association and serves as its current president.
Donlon's involvement comes through the Visiting Umpires Program. The NTFL Visiting Umpire Program runs during the southern states' off-season, inviting umpires from across Australia to officiate in the vibrant Northern Territory competition. It offers a chance to refine their skills, experience diverse playing styles, and engage with the local culture, while supporting AFLNT's umpiring development.
Melbourne Cricket Ground on July 30, 2022 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos)
His daughter Sarah's participation in the program has drawn him to the Top End. Sarah spoke about her development being part of the program; “My past month being up in Darwin to umpire for the NTFL is like nothing I have ever experienced before,” she said.
“Coming up here, I really wanted to test myself physically and refine my overall umpiring skills. The training and game day environment is handled with a high level of professionalism and the strong sense of community is something that really inspires me.
“I’m looking forward to umpiring with my dad as he has played such an integral role in my umpiring journey so far and continues to inspire me to be the best umpire I can be.”
Looking forward to the NTFL experience, Donlon expressed his enthusiasm for being part of this new chapter in his career. “Even though I umpired my last AFL match, I am extremely excited about returning to the field in the exciting NTFL,” Donlon stated.
“Skilfulness and thrilling football match the passion the Top End shares for their footy.
“I can recall how difficult the conditions were when I last umpired an AFL match in Darwin. I normally don't mind a bit of warmth, but I anticipate more than I am accustomed to.
“I am looking forward to sharing the experience with my wife, who hasn't visited Darwin and my daughter, who is currently umpiring in the TIO NTFL.”
Tiwi Bombers will take on the Nightcliff Tigers on Saturday, November 2 at 2:00pm at Gardens Oval.