The NFNL are extremely pleased to announce the following umpire coaching appointments for next season as below:
Field Umpire Coach: Grant Joyner
Grant is a former DVFL/NFNL and VAFA umpire with over 300 senior games to his name, including eight Grand Finals. With extensive on-field experience and a strong coaching background from his time at the VAFA & DVFL. Grant brings a wealth of knowledge to the umpiring community.
Junior Field Umpire Coach: Adrian Pekin
Adrian Started umpiring in the NFNL in 2017 and have officiated in 135 A Grade/Senior football games to date, including three senior grand finals. Since 2019, he has been involved in junior umpire coaching (with 2020–21 largely impacted by shutdowns) and took on a caretaker coaching role last season.
Umpire Development Mentor: Matt Edwards
Matt brings extensive experience and enthusiasm to his new role mentoring young umpires in all disciplines as they progress from local league football to state-level competition. His umpiring journey began with the Northern Football League (NFNL) in 2007 before advancing to the VFL in 2012. Since then, he has officiated in more than 170 senior men’s matches, including two TAC Cup Grand Finals. Matt has also been a prominent figure in the AFLW competition, umpiring 40 games and three Grand Finals.
The NFNL is excited to announce the inclusion of quality people into the program which will help ensure our umpires continue to meet the most up-to-date standards and expectations. This initiative will enable us to further develop and innovate within the NFNL umpiring program, fostering latest ideas and fresh approaches.
We are still finalising additional appointments to complement these announcements and will share further updates soon.
2026 Registrations are now Open, please click HERE to register!
