Spotlight on: Sheridan Dobing

How did you first get involved in AFL?

My brother played, my father coached and my mother was sports trainer so I wanted to get involved in the game in some way! I wasn’t really into the idea of playing at all, so in 2009 I decided to become an umpire and venture through down that pathway.

What do you love most about your involvement in AFL?

I love the fact that umpiring and my involvement in AFL is something I love, rather than just for fun. The fact we have such a supportive and close group is great because it is like having extended family that look out for you – especially being female in such a male dominant sport.

Umpiring has definitely made me grow as a person in so many different ways. I love that the local community can come together on a weekend, embrace whatever weather Canberra has to offer, and play a fantastic game of footy – that’s one of the best things about umpiring, experiencing those sorts of things and being a part of it.

What has been your best moment / greatest achievement in AFL?

I came back to umpiring after having two years off after left and right knee reconstructions in 2010/2011. As soon as I returned I was presented with some wonderful opportunities that I thought I was going to have to wait at least a year to get; U18 Youth Girls Nationals in Adelaide, Women’s NSW vs ACT representative state championship match in Blacktown, South East Regional Squad, Ball Steward and the opportunity to meet AFL level umpires – as well as an article in the record for the Youth Nationals.

Who inspires you in AFL and why?

Chelsea Roffey would have to be my umpire inspiration because, not only is she the only female AFL umpire, she is also one of the most approachable and caring umpires to the general public at games.

When little girls run up behind her in the stadium and call out her name, Chelsea will give a wave and in some way communicates with a smile or a comment. It is very admirable and I would love to have that same approach in my umpiring.

For a field umpire influence, Ray Chamberlain would be my inspiration with his direct and concise calls, the way he presents himself in situations and the way he approaches his game is something I admire and would love to incorporate into my own game too.

If you could achieve anything in AFL what would it be?

It would have to be either first female AFL field umpire or just to make AFL as a field umpire and umpire the game I love.