Umpires Embrace Education Session from Former AFL GreatThursday, April 28, 2022 - 4:20 PM - by Mark Readings

One of WA’s most decorated umpires has thrown his support behind the retention and recruitment of officials in the Esperance District Football Association. 

Dean Margetts, who umpired more than 350 games in the AFL, imparted his knowledge and experience during a development weekend.  

The Personal Development Session was instigated by WAFC Region Co-Ordinator Gemma Harrison, EDFA Umpiring boss Brad Forrester and Community and Country Umpiring Co-Ordinator Gerry O’Dea. 

Margetts also umpired 2 games with local umpires and ran a session as part of the Association launch. 

"It was very satisfying to see a group of umpires so engaged and asking questions. 

They just want to be the best they can be and if they can take away a few tips that make them better, then mission accomplished,” said Margetts. 

Given the difficulty in recruiting umpires in regional areas, the session was invaluable. 

“To get 15 umpires to the session speaks volumes for the appetite to learn their craft. 

The reality is the youngest whistle-blower is about 40 years-old old, so we need to get 18–39-year-olds involved, which means the competition is reliant on a new teacher or police officer rolling into town and putting their hand up,” Margetts said. 

The weekend was also hailed a success by EDFA President Stuart Tholstrup. 

“The session built confidence in our umpires and their decision making increased during matches. 

Last season we purchased 2 sets of radios so League umpires could talk to each other and listen to Dean as he was umpiring, which was incredibly valuable. 

The benefit for the players and coaches to witness local umpires carry out their roles at a high standard also can’t be underestimated. 

There’s no doubt it will help bridge the gap between the 2 groups on game day,” Tholstrup said. 

For Margetts, it was a long way from umpiring a big game at the MCG or Optus Stadium. 

“The games matter just as much to the players and supporters, and footy is the fabric of the town. 

I was made to feel so welcome and players after both matches went out of their way to thank me for coming down, which made the trip even more special,” Margetts revealed. 

The EDFA is hopeful of hosting a similar development session later this year for current and aspiring umpires.