Angus Bunker Smith: from VAFA umpire to VFL

The VAFA Umpires Department is thrilled to announce the exciting promotion of Angus Bunker Smith, one of the VAFA’s standout field umpires, to the VFL. This significant milestone is a moment worth celebrating for Angus and the entire VAFA community.  

Angus has made a name for himself within the VAFA through his exceptional decision-making, and impressive consistency. His strong performances throughout the 2024 AFL Victoria Community Umpire Accelerator Program, ensured Angus was rewarded for the 2025 season.  

His promotion reflects the VAFA’s commitment to nurturing and developing talented umpires, preparing them for higher levels of competition, and providing pathways to the VFL, VFLW, AFL and AFLW competitions. As his umpire career progresses, the VAFA community can look forward to seeing Angus continue to thrive at higher levels.  

“Seeing another VFL umpire promotion coming directly from the VAFA is tremendous news. It is a reward for the many hours of training and coaching undertaken by our umpires and shows the high standard of our umpiring group. This result reaffirms the VAFA’s role as a leader in developing umpiring talent.” – Stephen Privitera, VAFA Umpire Operations Manager. 

On behalf of the VAFA community, we extend our warmest congratulations to Angus on his well-deserved promotion to the VFL. His hard work and dedication for umpiring have earned him this opportunity, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for him. 

How to join VAFA umpiring for season 2025? 

New umpires are welcome to join the VAFA competition for the 2025 season. Pre-season training has commenced every Monday and Wednesday from 6pm at Elsternwick Park Oval 4, New Street, Brighton.

To register as an umpire please visit our website (vafa.com.au/vafa-umpires)

Should you have any questions about joining, please contact VAFA Umpire Operations Manager, Stephen Privitera [email protected]