Amanda’s Insight Into the Big Time

AFL North Coast Umpire Amanda Guthrie heads to Sydney on Friday, 3 March where she will be Emergency Umpire for the AFL Women’s match between the GWS GIANTS and Melbourne Demons.

Having been rookie listed with the AFL Women’s (AFLW) competition for 2017, Amanda’s development is being fast tracked with a view to possible Field Umpire status in 2018.

Next Friday will see her participate fully with the appointed match officials, be wired up to the match communication system which will allow her to hear all on field conversations, and will spend time with the Umpires’ Coach and listen to all feedback provided on the night.

This builds on the time that Amanda was able to spend with the umpires and coach at the recent JLT Community Series match in Coffs Harbour between the Sydney Swans and North Melbourne.

Amanda is excited by the chance to be involved in a match of this level.

“I can’t wait to get down to Sydney and be around the Umpires who are officiating in this match. This is a fantastic opportunity and I want to make the most of it.”

“This experience will really build upon the support I’ve been receiving from the State Umpiring Manager and the work that I’ve been doing with the North Coast Academy of Sport.”

The AFLW match between GWS GIANTS and Melbourne Demons is a curtain-raiser to the JLT Community Series match between the Giants and the Swans.

Amanda will also have the chance to view this match which will add to the experience on the day.

Should Amanda make it into the AFLW ranks in 2018 she will join former Sawtell Toormina Junior Nikki Wallace who has played in all of the Brisbane Lions matches this season.

Anyone interested in umpiring or in playing in the AFL North Coast Youth Girls (13 to 17) competition should contact the AFL Northern NSW office on 6659 6000.

To find your nearest AFL club go to www.play.afl.