Bounce Removed for 2023 WAFL SeasonThursday, March 30, 2023 - 9:27 AM

In a ground-breaking move, the centre bounce will be removed from all WAFL Competitions from the 2023 WAFL season. The decision has been confirmed following a successful trial during pre-season matches. 

Feedback provided by WAFL clubs, players, coaches and umpires was positive and added further weight to the WA Football Commission's (WAFC) decision to remove the bounce from all WAFL competitions. 

Scott Baker, Executive Manager - Football Operations at the WAFC, said “the WAFC is leading the way with this innovative move which will improve recruitment and retention of umpires. 

Removing the bounce takes away an important barrier for quality umpires, particularly good decision makers, to?be fast tracked through the umpiring talent pathway. We are very proud that the WAFL is seen as a leader in implementing changes like this to the game. ” Baker said. 

The WAFL also trialled the last-disposal rule during the first two rounds of the Pre-Season matches, but after discussing the trial with WAFL clubs, players, coaches and umpires it was decided not to continue with the rule in-season due in part to the small sample size of matches. 

"We will likely trial this rule again for a longer period in 2024 pre-season games and possibly Futures and Colts. We will continue to explore ways of improving the game with the WAFL Competition Committee and WAFL CEO group," Baker?said. 

Round 1 of the WAFL season begins on Good Friday.