Sport
8 May, 2026
Darts on target
FOOTBALL umpiring at any level can test one’s resilience, fitness and skills – but for the Dart family it has become somewhat of a tradition.
Dad Simon, a regular field umpire with the Warrnambool District Umpires Association, likes nothing better than running out with a whistle alongside sons Henry (13) and Oscar (11) who proudly take their places on the boundary.
“Having the boys run the boundary while I’m doing the field umpiring is something pretty special,” Simon said.
“We’ve been doing it for three seasons now and absolutely love it. The kids love umpiring and I think it’s great for them as players too.”
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When not officiating alongside dad, Henry and Oscar play for Koroit – Henry in the under 14s and Oscar the under 12s.
“They probably prefer to play but umpiring helps them improve their knowledge of the game, improves their fitness and they really enjoy it.
“Cricket is their big thing in the summer but come winter, footy it is.”
