Emerging Local Umpire Continues Proud WA Tradition at AFL LevelFriday, March 4, 2022 - 3:56 PM - by Rachael Osborne

WA’s Dan Johanson has confirmed his position as one of the games most promising field umpires, named the 2021 Ian Coates Medallist by the AFL Umpires Association.  

Johanson was chosen as the AFL’s Best First-or Second-Year Field Umpire. 

“It’s really nice to be recognised by the Association and AFL Umpiring Department, and it motivates me to continue my journey and be as good as I can,” Johanson said. 

Johanson was elevated to the AFL Field Umpiring list in 2020 after spending the previous AFL Season as a Rookie. 

He made his AFL debut when Fremantle played Hawthorn at Optus Stadium in 2020, and officiated in 17 matches last year, bringing his career tally to 22. 

WAFL and WAFLW Umpiring Operations Manager Dean Margetts has been part of Johanson’s progress from the start of his career. 

“Dan always had an appetite to be an AFL Umpire, and you could tell when he walked through the door you knew he had it, that elite edge which separates great umpires from the good. 

He was willing to accept strong feedback when it came, then more importantly process that information, and went and improved, Margetts said. 

 Johanson’s Award continues a rich tradition in WA umpiring ranks, with Greg Scroop, Luke Farmer, Nathan Williamson, and Justin Power all local officials who’ve won the Medal. 

Two WA umpiring greats were also recognised at the 2021 Awards Presentation. 

Chairman of the Umpiring WA State Advisory Group Grant Vernon was inducted into the AFLUA Hall of Fame for services to umpiring both on and off the field, while Brett Rosebury was named the AFLUA Umpire of the Year for the fourth time. 

Rosebury capped off another successful season when he umpired the historic 2021 AFL Grand Final at Optus Stadium. 

Johanson has reflected with fondness on his fledgling career, which started in the West Perth Junior District before umpiring 70 senior WAFL matches between 2014 and 2019. 

“It’s been such an amazing journey that teaches you amazing values and leads to lifelong friendships. 

It also provides amazing opportunities to be involved in the best game in the world at the elite level,” Johanson said. 

Margetts and his team are always on the look-out for new talent. 

“If you love the game or maybe lost the passion to play and want to be part of a team with an inclusive environment, then we’d love to hear from you. 

I tell all parents umpiring is a great role in footy, with the skills and lessons outweighing what happens on the field. 

It’s great way to get fit and get paid,” Margetts said.