AKA TSENG - GOAL UMPIRE FOR THE NTFL
Originally from Taiwan, Aka came to Australia as a backpacker, she knew nothing about AFL at first, but through umpiring, she found a way to connect with Australian culture, improve her English, and build a new community in Darwin.
Starting out was nerve-wracking, but the supportive umpiring family helped her find her place. Choosing goal umpiring for its precision (and to avoid running), Aka has grown in confidence, embracing the thrill of calling goals and waving the flags. Now, she dreams of umpiring in different cities, continuously improving her skills.
BRONTE STRAY - FIELD UMPIRE FOR THE CAFL
Bronte has been umpiring since she was 14, starting in Melbourne before finding her way to Alice Springs. After swapping an active lifestyle for a desk job, she needed a way to stay moving—so she picked up the whistle again. Now, with over 100 senior men’s games under her belt, she’s proving that women belong in the umpiring ranks.
Despite the challenges, Bronte finds strength in the support of fellow umpires and the inspiration of young girls and women watching from the sidelines. She hopes to see more women take up umpiring and believes there’s a place for everyone in footy.