Football
7 May, 2025
AFL umpire praises WFNL
A current AFL umpire is full of praise for the Wimmera Football Netball League after officiating the round three clash between Minyip Murtoa and the Warrack Eagles.
John Howorth, who started umpiring in the Wimmera, is encouraging young players to consider officiating, as he became the first active AFL umpire to officiate a community football game.
Howorth applauded the umpiring crew, including 15-year-old Seniors debutant Phoenix Hopper, and the two teams, for a fun and refreshing experience.
“Everyone was very welcoming and appreciative of me coming back, and supportive of Phoenix, so when you have an environment that is welcoming and that inclusive, it really promotes umpiring and the enjoyment of it,” Howorth said.
“It was a big advertisement for the Wimmera Football League and the environment they create, the professionalism of their league.”
AFL umpire recruitment and retention officer Cameron Pickering, as well as local umpire Patrick van Dyke, helped organise Howorth’s appointment to the game, which coincided with the AFL’s Community Umpiring Week.
Howorth also provided support to 12-year-old Zack Pickering, who umpired the reserves match.
“It was incredible to see Zack umpiring men in Reserves football at the age of 12,” Howorth said.
Having first umpired as a schoolkid, Howorth offered guidance for young players interested in the game.
“If you’re playing football, you can umpire as well," Howorth said.
"There is no need to quit football to be an umpire.
"Umpiring teaches you great life skills. It’s great for your confidence and your communication and conflict management.
“If you keep rocking up, attend every session, listen, don’t miss a game, just see where it takes you.”
