Long serving umpire Mark Noonan hangs up the boots in Round 18 of the 2024-25 NTFL season

The NT’s most accomplished umpire has called time on his career after more than 20 years calling the shots in the middle. Read how he’s reflected on some of his highlights.

The Northern Territory’s most accomplished umpire, Mark Noonan, has hung up the boots and whistle after officiating 374 Men’s Premier League games and 11 NTFL grand finals.

The field umpire received a guard of honour as he walked on and off the field at Norbuilt Oval and held the ball aloft for the final time in the Round 18 match between Southern Districts and St Mary’s.

It was his 375th Men’s Premier League appearance, surpassing the previous record of 260 games held by Gary Turbill, and has more than 550 total across all divisions.

Noonan joined the NTFL in the 1998-99 season and officiated his first premier league game in 2000 before relocating permanently to the NT in 2005 to take over as the AFLNT umpiring manager.

The NTFL's most accomplished umpire Mark Noonan has hung up the boots after more than two decades in the role. Picture: Patch Clapp / AFLNT Media

He got his first shot at a grand final in 2005-06 between the Darwin Buffaloes and St Mary’s, and was up for a total of 11, which could have been at least one more had he not had to pull out morning of.

The respect the community has for him as well as the leadership and professionalism he brings to the game was paid with plenty of thanks from the whole community on his last walk out.

“It was emotional obviously but it was great to be a part of footy for more than 30 years and give back to the game I love so much,” Noonan said.

“My right calf is slightly torn and I didn’t want to risk going out there, tear it and have the emergency come on disrupting the flow of the finals match.

“It’s good to just spend more time with my family and friends and enjoy the next five weeks before our 60th NTFL Umpires Association anniversary.

“The time was right, it’s been one hell of a journey and I appreciate all the well wishes from across Australia, from people from my younger days to now.”

The NTFL's most accomplished umpire Mark Noonan has hung up the boots after more than two decades in the role. Picture: Patch Clapp / AFLNT Media

Noonan’s passion for the game has driven to officiate across the Territory including Alice Springs, Katherine, Gove, Tennant Creek and the Tiwi Islands.

He has also won several awards including three Umpire of the Year accolades and was made an AFLNT life member in 2020.

“Nothing beats NT footy, I love being part of the action and to have seen so many great players and plays up here,” he said.

“Even in this last game it was great to be witness to that great Districts speccy, I would be surprised if that’s not up for mark of the year.

“There’s lots of highlights with the Nightcliff vs St Mary’s extra time grand final being right up there for me.

“You never forget your first Premier League grand final, mine being Buffs vs Saints in 05-06, but every grand final and the Foundation Cups on Australia Day have been highlights of mine.”

Another significant part of his legacy is the work he’s done creating pathways for new umpires setting up the umpire academy and continuing to help them develop.

“As the umpire manager for 12 years and having set up the umpiring academy it means so much to me,” he said.

The NTFL's most accomplished umpire Mark Noonan has hung up the boots after more than two decades in the role. Picture: Patch Clapp / AFLNT Media

“Just to see those kids turn into ripping adults it’s just so great, those young fellas and girls have grown up and become such decent humans.”

Head of AFLNT Sam Gibson said Noonan’s impact on the game had played a significant role in growing the sport in the NT.

“Mark Noonan has been a stalwart of Northern Territory football for many years,” Gibson said.

“His commitment and passion for the game have not only set a benchmark for umpires but have also helped shape the future of umpiring in the Territory.

“We thank Mark for his outstanding service and wish him all the best in the next chapter of his life.”

Originally published as Long serving umpire Mark Noonan hangs up the boots in Round 18 of the 2024-25 NTFL season