The AFL Umpiring Department hosted a joint function with the Victoria Policy Legacy at AFL umpire training on Tuesday 10th June.
The Victoria Police Legacy (VPL) is a charitable not-for-profit organisation that provides a range of services to police families throughout Victoria who have suffered the loss of a loved one. Should a serving or retired police officer or protective services officer, or their spouse/partner pass away, Victoria Police Legacy is there to provide ongoing support to the spouse/partner and children.
After receiving a request from the VPL, the AFL agreed to run an event that would be interactive and inclusive for attendees and umpires.
The event included:
- a virtual reality umpiring experience using VR headsets
- on-field activities with AFL boundary and goal umpires
- a demonstration of the AFL Review Centre (commonly referred to as the ARC)
- a tour of umpire / player changing rooms at Marvel Stadium
All attendees were welcomed by Head of Officiating Stephen McBurney before he invited field umpire Nathan Williamson to speak about his umpiring journey from a small country town in West Australia. Goal umpire Adam Wojcik then spoke about the challenges of balancing his career as a police officer with Victoria Police with his goal umpiring and family commitments.
Special thanks to Aaron Nunn who coordinated the event and managed the event on the night.
