The Northern Territory’s umpiring talent pathway continues to create meaningful opportunities for young umpires to grow, connect, and gain exposure on the national stage. Recent involvement in the Coates Talent League and the School Sport Education (SSE) Under 12s Championships has further highlighted the strength of AFLNT’s development model and the impact of its dedicated mentor network.
From Tuesday 29 April to Thursday 1 May 2025, AFLNT provided a team of junior umpires and mentors to support the SSE Under 12s Championships. The event featured an outstanding group of umpiring mentors, including Annika Mighall, Chelsea Wright, Emily Hatton, Narelle Long, Nellie McLean, Katherine Flynn, Jenny Rowe, Angela Wood and Sheryl Schmode, who all played a key role in delivering a positive and enriching experience. Junior umpires were given the opportunity to officiate competitive matches in a structured, confidence-building environment that emphasised learning and long-term development.
As a result of their performance during the championships, six umpires have been selected to represent the Northern Territory at the upcoming National Championships, supported by AFLNT travel grants. For student umpires, participation in the SSE Championships also contributes toward school credit, highlighting the program’s value in both personal and educational development.
Two weeks later, Josh Cooper, Emily Hatton, Cooper Bament, Toby Koefoed, Mitchell Walker, Bridie Mackay and Kyriakos Lambrinidis were selected to officiate the Coates Talent League Under 18 Boys curtain-raiser ahead of the AFL match between the Gold Coast Suns and Western Bulldogs. This high-profile opportunity placed the Territory’s emerging umpires in a pre-elite environment, allowing them to refine their skills under pressure and showcase their talent on a national stage. Mentor Annika Mighall continued her invaluable support throughout the day.
Together, these opportunities reflect AFLNT’s ongoing commitment to developing a clear, inclusive and inspirational umpiring pathway for young Territorians.