DUAL V SINGLE UMPIRING - HOW TO

In AFL umpiring, dual umpiring is different to the way a single

umpire game is structured.

In dual umpire, communication is needed to clearly indicate which

umpire has possession/authority over the game - more later.

On a field, umpires should be spaced between 25 and 50 meters

away from each other, depending on age group/speed and kicking
ability of the players. While it is usually about using common sense
(e.g. position yourself approximately 1 kick away from the current
position of the ball), there are times when the second umpire should
position themselves in certain positions. The two main times are a)
during centre bounces - stand in a corner of the square if not the
controlling umpire. A certain side should be agreed upon before play
starts, usually on the side of the stronger team (so an umpire is
closer to the stronger/better team’s goals - ready for a long kick into
the attacking 50) b) when a set shot is being taken, the second (non
controlling) umpire should line up about 5-10 meters behind the
player taking the kick to provide a second point of view if a goal is
disputed, illegal play/hits/contact is made or if a player walks into
the protected area.

When an umpire decides he/she wants to pass the play/control over

to the other umpire, he/she must do so by clearly yelling out “yours”,
“you” or any other expressions that would indicate that the play
should be passed on to the other umpire. To confirm that the second
umpire has heard and comprehended that they are now in control of
the play, they should respond with “mine” ect.

UMPIRES CAN NOT TAKE OVER PLAY IF THEY WANT TO - THEY CAN
ONLY BECOME THE CONTROLLING UMPIRE IF THE OTHER UMPIRE
GIVES THEM THE HANDOFF BEFOREHAND, AS DESCRIBED ABOVE

This is important as it can cause confusion if not adhered to.

For the controlling umpire, same AFL rules and umpiring training
applies - the main difference between dual and single umpiring is
how the umpires communicate and position themselves, as well as
how they work as a team.

In essence, umpire as you normally would, just remember not to

“hog” being the controlling umpire - a tendency that many new dual
umpires, including myself, have during their first couple of games

Good Luck!

Angus