800 games for an ageless whistle-blower

Last weekend John Natoli umpired the 800^th game of his incredible 46-year career when he officiated in the VAFA Division 2 Women’s clash between Mazenod OC and Hawthorn AFC.

John’s umpiring journey began in 1978 when he umpired three seasons in the VFA. His VAFA connection began when he was appointed Umpire Recruitment Officer in 1988 and spent several years blowing the whistle in the Ammos before heading to the Southern Football League, where he oversaw 300 games.

Another 3 years of service to the Yarra Valley Football League was followed by a return to the VAFA in 2015, where he has spent the last decade umpiring matches across a wide variety of sections in the men’s and women’s competitions.

“It’s fun, it’s a great way to get exercise and be involved in a game we all love,” said John, when asked what he gets out of his involvement.

“I’ve made lifelong friends all over the place, given I’ve not only umpired around Victoria but also interstate and overseas.

“I’ve done ten national Masters carnivals, which are like reunions that bring everyone together. I’ve umpired two games in Shanghai with the Shanghai Tigers. Earlier this year I was in Bateman’s Bay on holidays and ended up umpiring three games in a day. I was a bit sore that night!

“Last month I was in Bali and umpired in the AFL 9’s tournament. It’s a great way to see different levels of footy and meet people all over the place.”

John always enjoys going to the after-match functions and sharing a drink with the coaches and players.

“The biggest thing in umpiring is communication,” he said.

“You’ve got to be a good communicator. Don’t be overly officious. How you treat people on both sides of the fence is so important. It’s not only the players, it’s also the officials. Treat people with respect and be clear with your communication – that goes a long way.”

“John is a legend in our VAFA umpiring ranks,” said VAFA Umpiring Operations Manager, Stephen Privitera.

“To have someone of his incredible experience in our team is invaluable. He’s always up for a game and ready to jump in and help out at a moment’s notice. Forty-six years of blowing the whistle is phenomenal. He just loves umpiring and his enthusiasm is infectious. He’s an inspiration for our young umpires. ”

A passionate lifelong Swans fan, John has fond memories of meeting and getting to know heroes such as Peter Bedford and Bobby Skilton, as well as the late great Ron Barassi.

“Umpiring connects you to the game and gives you a common interest with so many other people.”

69 years young, John remains passionate about being involved and fortunately, his body has been largely co-operative.

“What does 800 games mean to me? Well firstly, that I’m getting old!” he laughs.

“The body is going ok. Having women’s footy has been great – it’s certainly kept me in the game a lot longer and I’ve got smarter with my movement around the ground over the years. You have to at my age!”

Every sport needs tireless servants like John Natoli. Congratulations from all of us at the VAFA John and thank you for your incredible lifetime of service to the game and may there be plenty more games still ahead of you!