Congratulations to new AFL field umpire Jack Howard who made his listed debut in the round 13 clash between Richmond and Sydney at the ‘G.
Howard has excelled in recent years in the VFL, umpiring back to back VFL grand finals in 2023 and 2024, which earned him his elevation to the AFL rookie list this year.
In the lead up to his debut, Howard has garnered the attention of the racing industry media for his unusual dual careers.
When he’s not blowing the whistle on gamedays, Howard is the racing manager for Melbourne Cup winning trainer Danny O’Brien.
Howard’s journey in racing began a decade ago when he got a job mucking out stables at Flemington to help him get through a teaching degree at university.
His incredible rise from the box-boy to racing manager is challenged only by his rise from a junior umpire at the Essendon District Football League to gracing the hallowed turf of the MCG.
His debut faced typically wintery Melbourne conditions, possibly reducing the track at the G’ to a soft 7.