This weekend marks an extraordinary milestone in Darling Downs football, as local umpiring stalwart Nathan celebrates his 700th game a feat built on passion, perseverance, and a love of the game that’s spanned over 26 years.
Nathan’s journey into umpiring began not with boots as a player, but with a whistle. Unable to play junior footy himself, he still craved a way to be part of the game he loved. “Umpiring was a great gateway,” Nathan shared. “It got me on the field every week with the best view in the house.”
His long-standing commitment to the game has earned him not only respect within the football community but also countless memories like the time during his very first game when, low on fitness and energy, the crowd rallied behind him. “I was running out of steam in the last quarter. Every time I came near the fence, they were cheering me on. The whole crowd got involved. I’ll never forget it.”
Over the years, umpiring has given Nathan more than just a role in the game it’s shaped him as a leader and a person. “It’s taught me to back myself, make quick decisions, and stay composed under pressure,” he said. “And the friendships I’ve made? They’re for life.”
To young or aspiring umpires, Nathan’s message is simple: “Give it a go. It’s a great way to stay fit, be part of a great team, and make new mates. There are so many opportunities if you’re willing to step up.”
Those closest to Nathan see the bigger picture. His wife Jess speaks with immense pride: “I can’t imagine Nath ever not umpiring. His love for the game and our local footy community is unshakeable.”
True to his humble nature, Nathan was unaware of the quiet plans underway to honour his milestone. “He’ll be mortified,” Jess laughed. “But family from the Gold Coast and Brisbane are making the trip to watch him walk out for the 700th time. It means so much to us to witness it.”
She added, “I’m incredibly proud of him for his loyalty, his integrity, and the way he helps others become great umpires. He never does it for the recognition he always says, ‘It’s not about me, it’s about the players.’ But this weekend, it is about him.”
And just like any athlete with pre-game rituals, Nathan’s are uniquely his: he’s used the same whistle in every game, preps his kit bag the night before with military precision, and never leaves for a grand final without mushrooms on toast.
From three states to hundreds of games, Nathan’s contribution to Australian Rules football in the region is profound an unsung hero with a whistle and a legacy that will echo long after the final siren.
