With the AFL currently discussing whether or not to introduce a fourth field umpire into the game, now is a good time to have a look at the four field umpire system. What is is? And how does it work? Read on to find out.
History of the 4 umpire system
The four umpire system has been previously trialled in the pre-seasons of 2005 and 2006 as well as the Hall of Fame Tribute match during 2008. Essentially the proposal to have four field umpires has emerged to allow umpires to accommodate to the ever increasing speed of the game and to create better positioning which could potentially lead to higher decisional accuracy.
Although the decision to increase umpire numbers may sound radical to some, there hasn’t always been three field umpires on the field. Up until 1975 the one umpire system existed at AFL level. The 1976 season saw the introduction of the two umpire system followed by the introduction of the three umpire system in 1994. So, to some extent, the move towards four field umpires may be a natural progression.
How does the 4 umpire system work?
Essentially the four umpire system is not too dissimilar to the workings of the three umpire system. The major difference being the introduction of a second umpire into the mid zone (the middle of the ground extending between the two fifty metre arcs), instead of the current system which has just one umpire officiating in the mid zone.
The mid zone is the most physically demanding section on the ground in which to umpire. Field umpires rotate in and out of the mid zone at various stages throughout the course of the match to cope with the high physical demands it poses.
The workings of the four umpire system sees one umpire in each end zone (area inside the 50 metre arc) with two umpires in the mid zone operating in the way of the old 2 umpire system.
Umpires would continue to rotate through both the mid and end zones during the course of the match. However, instead of each umpire running an average distance of 15 kilometres during a match as is currently the case, umpires would run closer to an average of 11 kilometres.
Points for the introduction of the 4 umpire system
Umpires can be in better position to make decisions all over the ground: By having more umpires on the field, umpires are able to position themselves deeper into the end zone. This allows umpires to be in a better position to adjudicate on ‘hands in the back’ infringements in marking contests. Early arrival at the contest in correct position should enhance the ability of the umpire to calmly view a contest and adjudicate correctly.
With the reduced physical demands, umpires felt fresher at the end of games: In theory, reduced fatigue levels should enhance umpiring concentration and decision making as the game progresses.
Umpiring at stoppages is more effective: Having two sets of eyes close to every contest is seen to be a benefit. The non controlling umpire is able to detect more infringements because of the improved proximity. This allows for the bouncing umpire to focus on completing the skill before he comes up to observe any infringements. This could also lead to improved bouncing performance. Having two umpires at stoppages also acts as a strong deterrent to off the ball players from infringing or engaging in undisciplined play. Umpires are also able to manage off ball situations more appropriately and to be available to players to clarify decisions or answer questions.
When a free kick or mark is awarded, one umpire is able to be at the kicker and one able to be surveying the zone where the kick is intended: This allows the umpire to obtain a good, side on position at most marking contests enabling the ‘hands in the back’ interpretation to be policed more accurately and consistently.
Lengthening of an umpire’s career could occur: Experienced umpires are able to umpire AFL football longer as the physical demands of umpiring would decrease with the introduction on the 4 umpire system. This would lead to the imparting of more knowledge from experienced umpires onto the new umpires coming on the AFL list.
Umpiring two games a weekend is feasible: With the reduced physical demands the umpires will recover more quickly from games. It is also anticipated that after a day’s rest umpires could be physically and mentally able to umpire another game in a weekend.
Points against the introduction of the 4 umpire system
Umpires could be caught too close to play: There are some concerns that umpires could potentially be caught too close to play especially on small grounds such as the SCG. However, during trials umpires claimed that experience in the four umpire system is all that is needed to ease this concern as umpires will adapt with the more games that they do.
Wavering concentration levels due to reduced time officiating during the game: Some concerns were raised about the possibility of umpires’ concentration levels dropping as a result of being out of play for extensive periods. However, the ability for umpires to rotate more heavily in a four umpire system has eased this concern.
Where to from here?
The four umpire system could again be trialled next year throughout the 2009 NAB Cup pre-season competition. But with the increasing speed in the game it may be absolutely necessary to move towards a four umpire system in the home and away competition. However, it also may not. Whatever path umpiring takes in the future, rest assured the AFL umpires will continue to work as hard as ever.
