WFNL: Razor Ray Chamberlain to umpire Spotswood v Point Cook Centrals

The AFL’s most well known umpire of the modern era is coming out of retirement this weekend to officiate a local footy game in Melbourne’s west.

Ray Chamberlain will officiate a WFNL game. Pic: Michael Klein

Polarising former AFL umpire “Razor” Ray Chamberlain is back.

The 389-game veteran will come out of retirement this weekend when he officiates the Western Football Netball League Division 1 clash between Spotswood and Point Cook Centrals.

Chamberlain is taking part in the game at Donald McLean Reserve on Saturday as part of his support for The Male Hug — an initiative which seeks to raise the awareness of men’s mental health and promote the open dialogue of this often sensitive issue.

The 48-year-old said he was a little surprised to be back out on the field so soon after calling time on his career at the top level.

“I was approached by Spotswood to be a part of this day and at first, I was a little apprehensive about doing it,” he said.

“But with the importance of men’s mental health surrounding the game, and the little bit of a flame that’s still alight to perform the role, I thought to myself you are too long retired, and it will be fun to get out there and see how we go.

“And no, I won’t be bouncing the ball, I’ll leave that to the experts.”

Spotswood Football Netball Club president Alan Given expressed his thanks for Chamberlain’s involvement.

“Ray Chamberlain is a legend of the game, there wouldn’t be too many AFL Fans who don’t know him,” Given said.

“With the AFL in South Australia this weekend we encourage all footy fans who stayed in Melbourne to pop on down to Spotswood and have your say about Ray’s umpiring effort on the day.”

On June 20, Chamberlain will be involved in the initiative’s Kick a Goal for Mental Health Even at the MCG Members Dining Room.

“Getting back out into the community and umpiring in the Western Football Netball League helps us get the message out there that men really need to talk and share their emotions with a mate or call the 1800 My Buddy Line and speak to someone who is happy to listen,” Chamberlain said.

The Male Hug’s CEO and Founder Tony Rabah said: “For Ray to come out of retirement and umpire this game on Saturday on behalf of Men’s Mental Health and our “Kick a Goal for Mental Health” function at the MCG on June 20 is an amazing contribution by him.

“As we do, Ray is encouraging men to talk, whether that be chatting over the fence to him after a decision, or just being there with some mates and chatting about the game. Talking is important”.

The day’s action will feature five games across two ovals.