At 30 years old, most people are settling into routines - careers, families, or maybe even hanging up the boots. For Justin Dolin, affectionately known as JD in umpiring circles, it was the beginning of a remarkable journey. More than three decades later, he’s just officiated his 1100th game in the Perth Football League. 

“I started when I was 30, so that was probably around ’91 or ’92,” JD recalls. “We came up from the country and it’s something I’d always wanted to do - umpire. I got into it then as a field umpire, and I’ve been in it ever since.” 

Having dabbled in amateur football in his younger years, JD’s initial entrance into the sport came as a player with Trinity Old Boys, now Trinity Aquinas. But it wasn’t until he returned to Perth years later that he made the move into umpiring- a decision that would shape the next three decades of his life. 

JD remembers his very first game vividly: “It was at College Park. I think it was Wembley, but I have no idea who the opposition was. It was a single-umpire day, very hot, probably March or April. I still remember the coach’s report—he wrote ‘keep him down the bottom’. I took it as a good sign. I must not have done too badly!” 

Over the years, JD has worn all three umpiring hats—field, boundary, and goal. While boundary umpiring wasn’t his favourite ("too much running!"), it became part of the journey. Eventually, he found his stride in goal umpiring - a role he still enjoys today. 

Through 1100 games, JD has witnessed the growth of the Perth Football League firsthand. “It’s certainly evolved. We used to have A Grade down to F Grade. Now there’s A, B, C and even C1, C2, C3. And the introduction of women’s football has been huge - it’s brought so many more players and, of course, a greater need for umpires.” 

But for JD, it’s more than just about numbers or milestones—it’s about the people and the passion. “I enjoy the company. The guys in goals are great. The atmosphere at PFL umpiring is really good. And I just love being immersed in the game.” 

Now retired, JD thoroughly enjoys the time he gets around the PFL Umpire crew. “I can spend a lot more time here. We go out on the weekend as a group, as a team. In A Grade, there are seven of you—three field, two boundary, two goal. You have to interact. You’re part of a team, and you're representing the PFL.” 

Hitting 1000 games was always the big goal - reached back in 2022. Everything since then? A bonus! “To get to a thousand was the goal. That felt great. But now, I just go out each week. I don’t count the games. You get told, ‘you’re at 1100’, and you go, ‘oh, okay’.” 

And with no signs of slowing down, it’s clear JD isn’t done just yet. Because for him, it’s simple: “I just like being part of the game.” 

People like JD are the quiet constants- mentors, teammates, and leaders - who ensure the game not only runs smoothly but continues to grow for the next generation. The power of local footy lives in these everyday legends. 

Thank you for your contribution, Justin!