AFL legend James Hird has advocated for the immediate introduction of automatic one-week suspensions for players who make “meaningful contact” with umpires. This call follows the AFL’s recent announcement that players accumulating four or more fines within two years would be referred to the tribunal. This new policy appears to target Gold Coast Suns player Matt Rowell, who has faced multiple fines this season for near contacts with umpires.
The AFL has seen a surge in fines for careless umpire contact this year, with 63 fines issued so far, up from 56 in 2022. Hird expressed his surprise that “meaningful contact” with umpires did not already warrant an automatic suspension, emphasising the need for players to take responsibility for the safety of umpires, much as they do for their opponents during tackles.
Hird pointed out that with large players potentially causing serious harm to the smaller umpires, there should be an obligation for players to avoid any impactful interaction. He defined “meaningful contact” as anything that could cause injury, distinguishing it from minor brushes that wouldn’t warrant discipline. He stressed the importance of ensuring umpires can perform their roles without the fear of getting hurt.
Recent incidents have drawn scrutiny, including Bombers player Nate Caddy, who collided heavily with an umpire but was not fined. Another instance involved Richmond’s Jayden Short, who caused an umpire to be knocked out, yet faced no penalties either. Hird suggested that the increase in on-field congestion has made umpire contact more common, recalling a time when players were heavily penalised for such incidents.
Former Eagles coach Adam Simpson noted Rowell’s insistence on maintaining his playing style could lead to further disciplinary actions, reflecting concerns from coaching staff. Meanwhile, AFLPA interim boss Ben Smith expressed disappointment over the league’s decision to escalate penalties without consulting the players’ association. He highlighted the importance of discussing the rising penalties holistically, given that factors like increased umpire presence and ball congestion influence the frequency of these incidents. The players believe the current fines are not commensurate with the nature of the offences.
Overall, Hird and other commentators agree that protecting umpires should be paramount, and clearer protocols regarding player interactions with umpires need to be established to ensure their safety while they officiate the game.