This week saw 13 talented Indigenous and Multicultural umpires converge on Cairns to officiate in the 2015 AFL National Diversity Championships as they build their umpiring careers.

This is the first occasion that umpires from an Indigenous or Multicultural background have been involved in the championships that celebrates diversity in Australia’s Game. It is also the first time that the AFL Umpiring Department have managed the program, which demonstrates the importance of umpiring diversity to the overall national umpiring plan.

When asked about the increased focus on umpiring diversity,

National Umpiring Development Manager Adam Davis answered “The AFL understands that we need to continue to grow umpiring numbers throughout Australia and currently umpiring lacks people from diverse backgrounds”. Davis went on to explain “We believe that umpiring offers a fantastic opportunity for people from diverse backgrounds to get in the game. You can earn money, make friends, learn life skills and stay fit”.

AFL Grand Final umpires Mat Nicholls will coach the championships umpires and Chris Appleton as well as the experienced boundary umpire Robert Taylor.

If you are interested in becoming an umpire, visit www.getinthegame.com.au.