Around 40 umpires and coaches across Gippsland came together last weekend for a strong day of learning and development at AFL Gippsland’s Umpire Development Day ahead of the 2026 season.
Gippsland Umpires Association, South Gippsland Umpires Association, Latrobe Valley Umpires Association and Sale Umpires Association were represented at the day, facilitated by AFL Victoria’s Leigh Buwalda and Maddie Williams.
They were supported by AFL umpires Jamie Broadbent (field), Matt Jenkinson (boundary) and Sam Walsh (goal), with the sessions combining vision and decision-making, on-field practical work, coaching development and planning for 2026.
From understanding the Victorian talent pathway to building stronger coaching toolkits, the day reinforced AFL Gippsland’s commitment to investing in the most integral part of the game — the umpires.
There are plenty of opportunities to join the team in green for 2026, please reach out to your local Umpire Association for more details.
