AFL Sydney Seniors umpire Emma Waters has been elevated to the NAB AFLW list, offered an AFLW rookie contract for the 2026 season.
The news capped off a hat-trick of achievements for Waters, having been awarded AFL Sydney Seniors Men’s Premier Division Umpire of the Year at the Phelan and Mostyn Medal Night and being appointed as Field Umpire for the 2026 Women’s Premier Division Grand Final.
Waters started umpiring at 15 years of age while at the Pennant Hills Demons as a way to make extra money at Pennant Hills Demons. She continued playing and umpiring footy for four years before deciding to dedicate herself to the team in green.
Emma becomes the fourth Woman on the AFLW Umpire Panel from NSW/ACT, joining Alysha Ramsay (Field), Zali Mertens (Field), and Emma Loaney (Goal).
The AFL NSW/ACT Umpiring Team caught up with Waters recently about her career achievement –
Emma, how did it feel receiving the news that you were being offered an AFLW rookie contract?
It was a pretty surreal moment. I was really excited and proud, but also a little shocked as this was something I didn’t realise was so in reach at this point in time.
To have the opportunity to take the next step in my umpiring journey and be a part of the AFLW environment was really special. It made me realise that all the time and effort I’d put into umpiring was starting to pay off.
What was your first AFLW umpiring experience like?
It was a mix of excitement and nerves, but an amazing learning opportunity. I was the emergency (field umpire) that day, so being able to sit on the bench and listen to my fellow umpires was really valuable. The knowledge and experience they had was something I really aspired to, so being able to take it all in and learn from them was a great first AFLW experience.
What would you say to other women and girls in umpiring who want to follow in your footsteps?
I would tell them to go for it, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.
Umpiring can be challenging at times, but there are so many opportunities to learn, grow and meet some great people along the way.
You don’t need to have it all figured out from the beginning – just keep working hard, take feedback on board and enjoy every step of your journey. Most important believe in yourself and don’t be afraid to chase opportunities when they come your way
For more information about AFL umpiring and to become an AFL umpire, visit here.