UMPIRE4FUN

UMPIRE4FUN

The Umpire4Fun program was created to develop and nurture umpires at the grassroots level across community clubs in Queensland. It is aimed at participants 12 years and older, to get involved in umpiring.

The program focuses on learning the fundamental skills of umpiring and developing knowledge of the game.

Umpire4Fun is a great way to:
• Earn money from weekend games
• Build confidence and leadership skills
• Stay involved in footy
• Make new friends at your club
• Learn more about the game

HOW DOES IT WORK?

The Umpire4Fun program runs from March to August and provides a simple introduction to umpiring.

Getting started is easy:

  1. Register online
  2. Attend online and on-field training
  3. Umpire junior games at your club

Participants officiate junior matches while learning from experienced mentors and building their confidence in the role.

Watch a day in the life of an Umpire4Fun umpire!

HELPFUL INFORMATION

The Umpire4Fun program includes all umpire training, education, support and ongoing development for young and new umpires interested in beginning their umpiring journey:

  • An umpiring uniform on-field shirt (mandatory) shorts, socks, & hat (optional)
  • An umpiring handbook – outlining everything umpires need to know including modified rules for each age group.
  • Training and coaching – see below for more information.
  • Umpiring pathway opportunities for participants to transition from Umpire4Fun into Youth and Senior competitions at their own pace in the Field, Boundary and Goal disciplines.
  • Recognition and development opportunities for SEQ Umpires – NAB AFL Auskick Grid Games and SEQJ Finals Goal Umpiring.   
  • Umpire4Fun Starter Kit – bag, whistle and signals keyring*

    * To be eligible participants must be first year Umpire4Fun and registered in OfficialsHQ

Find Umpire4Fun Participant Handbook within the resources section for more information. 

AFL Queensland delivers Umpire4Fun training sessions both online and on-field throughout the season to support participants as they learn the basics of umpiring.

Training sessions are delivered at venues across South East Queensland, with online sessions available for all participants.

2026 Training Schedule
 

Session TypeSubjectDate/Timing
Online TrainingIntro & Field25 March, 6.00pm
Field Session 1FieldWeek of 30 March
Field Session 2FieldWeek of 20 April
Online TrainingBoundary20 May, 6.00pm
Field Session 3BoundaryWeek of 25 May
Online TrainingGoal17 June, 6.00pm
Field Session 4GoalWeek of 22 June


Further details for each session, including locations and links, will be provided to registered participants.

Please note: session dates are subject to change. Any updates will be communicated through Rookie Me Connect.

For more detailed information about training and development opportunities, refer to the Umpire4Fun Coordinator Handbook.

All participants are required to register on the OfficialsHQ platform to ensure you receive up to date information.

When registering choose League: Umpire4Fun and Discipline: Field

Create an account and register here

Please check out our induction guide which provides information on starting your journey as an umpire, and how to register.

Umpiring Coordinator - Recruitment & Retention Nicola Stevens nicola.stevens@afl.com.au

Community Football Engagement Lead - Ainslie Gardner ainslie.gardner@afl.com.au