Country Umpires selected for AFL’s National UMPowered Coaching Conference. 

We’re excited to share that Rachel Southam (Kimberley) and Daniella Schoeman (SWFL Boundary Umpire Coach) have been selected as two of only twenty-five participants nationwide to attend the national UMPowered Coaching Conference at AFL House. Their selection means WA will be proudly represented by just two coaches and both are outstanding leaders with the Kimbereley and South West communitie. 

Across two days, Rachel and Daniella will take part in immersive development sessions designed to strengthen their coaching capability, broaden their professional toolkit, and connect them with other emerging women leaders from across Australia.

Launched in 2024, the UMPowered Coaching Conference brings together self-nominated Women and Girls Umpires and Umpire Coaches from every state and territory for a landmark national learning experience. The initiative forms a key part of the Women and Girls Game Development Action Plan, which is focused on creating supportive, sustainable umpiring environments and increasing the presence of empowered women in coaching roles.

They will also get to experience an AFL Match Day as an umpire with a variety of behind the scenes opportunities .