AFL Western District looks to stop umpire abuse by sending out message

A part of country Victoria has recorded a “significant increase” in umpire abuse in recent weeks and local officials say they’ve had enough.

Local footy umpires in the state’s southwest are fed up after a “significant increase” of abusive incidents in recent weeks.

The recent run of poor behaviour from players, officials and spectators has forced AFL Western District to remind clubs that there will be a zero tolerance approach to umpire abuse.

Last week, a Heywood reserves player was suspended for four matches in the South West District league for abusing an umpire abuse.

A week earlier, a Hampden league senior game was temporarily suspended because of poor behaviour.

Warrnambool District Umpires Association president Gavin Sell said last week’s incidents were the last straw.

His association officiates games in the Hampden and Warrnambool and District leagues.

“That (the message) came to head after last week’s game. The clubs, AFL Western District and leagues are trying to show their support for umpires and officials,” Sell said.

“At the end of the day it needs to come back to the clubs to keep their supporters (and players) in check. “

Sell said he understood fans and players are passionate and there is emotion in the game, but enough is enough.

“In any sport people get emotive but they need to keep themselves in check,” Sell said.

“We understand you know ‘ball’ or ‘c’mon umpire’. That type of stuff (is) essentially a part of footy.

“But when you are called other things that’s where it is overstepping the mark.

“You wouldn’t accept it in an office environment or a workplace so why is it different on a football field?

“You don’t pay your admission price to the footy to do what you want.

“We need to change that behaviour now.”

In a statement, Mininera and District league club Glenthompson Dunkeld president Damien Logan said AFL Western District had reported a “o a “significant increase” in incidents.

Logan said clubs had been fined at the tribunal for cases involving umpire abuse.

“The recruitment and retention of umpires across the country is a major concern for the game,” a club statement said.

“This current behaviour is negatively impacting on retaining the current umpires and makes it near impossible to recruit new umpires.

“From our knowledge, this is not a current issue at our club, however, it is a great reminder to all that we cannot play football or netball without umpires, some whom are volunteers and doing this job to the best of their ability.

“The Glenthompson Dunkeld Football Club will continue to be a supportive inclusive club and your support about this matter will ensure our club is a leader in this matter.”

Sell revealed umpires left the association last year due to abuse.

And while no one has left yet this season the association is dealing with record low numbers.

“Umpire numbers are the worst they’ve ever been statewide and trying to find officials is the worst it’s ever been,” Sell said.

“There’s volunteer burnout.

“We’re in 2023, it’s not 1960s or 1950s anymore where there are an abundance of people who want to take on roles.”