Claremont Umpires

🏆 2026 Golden Whistle — Christopher Lapsley
Since beginning umpiring in 2023, Christopher has progressed rapidly through the ranks. This season, he debuted in the Year 11/12 competition, joined the WAFL Senior Squad’s Boundary Talent Pod and earned selection on the WAFLW Finals Panel. His versatility also earned him field umpire Talent Identification and selection for the Development Carnival.
Christopher’s athleticism is equally impressive, winning the Draft Night 1km Time Trial for the second consecutive year with a time of 3:03.
At only 16, his humility, maturity, professionalism and commitment to improving have earned the respect of coaches and fellow umpires. After an exceptional rise, it is fitting that his first individual award at The Den is our highest junior umpiring honour.
Congratulations, Christopher! 💙💛

🏆 2026 Stanton-Dyer Best Umpire — Jack Coutinho
Since beginning his umpiring journey in 2021, Jack has established himself as one of Claremont’s premier field umpires. His professionalism, composure and commitment to improvement have earned the respect of coaches, players and fellow umpires.
Jack’s impact extends well beyond the field. As our First Year Modified Field Coach, he has played an important role in developing our newest umpires and will step into the position of Head Modifieds Coach next season.
Jack’s dedication, humility, leadership and genuine care for others embody everything the Stanton-Dyer Award represents.
Congratulations, Jack! 💙💛

🏆 Best Clubman — Dan Weatherhead
After umpiring with The Den from 2011 to 2016 and serving as Head Youth Coach in 2017 and 2018, Dan spent eight years in the Northern Territory before returning to the association this season—not for recognition, but simply to give back.
As a Match Day Coach, Dan has become an invaluable member of our team. Whether he is running warm-ups, assisting with drills or sharing his experience with our umpires, he quietly sees what needs to be done and gets on with it.
Dan’s character, selflessness and commitment to making those around him better embody everything the Best Clubman Award represents.
Congratulations, Dan! 💙💛

🏅 Life Member — Patrick Hillery
From beginning as a young field umpire 10 years ago to becoming an outstanding goal umpire, coach and leader, Patrick has grown into a true heart-and-soul member of The Den.
His achievements include joining the WAFL Goal Umpire D Squad in 2024, winning the 2025 Boud-Rogers D Squad Goal Umpire of the Year award and officiating the Rogers Cup and WAFLW Grand Finals. He has also continued to give back as a Match Day Coach and Head Goal Coach.
Patrick’s time, energy and commitment to developing others have made The Den a better and more enjoyable place for everyone.
Congratulations and welcome to Life Membership, Patrick! 💙💛

🏅 Life Member — Sam Orr
Since joining The Den in 2017, Sam has become one of the association’s most consistent and valued contributors. He has served as a Match Day Coach since 2022, a Training Coach since 2023 and an Ordinary Committee Member since 2024. His character and commitment were also recognised when he received the 2024 Best Clubman Award.
Sam is a reliable, honest and highly respected coach who takes the development of young umpires seriously—while never taking himself too seriously. Whether offering direct feedback or finding time to take the micky, his personality has made him an important part of The Den.
Sam has generously given his time at training, on match days and through the committee, consistently turning up and contributing wherever needed.
Congratulations on becoming a Life Member, Sam! 💙💛

🏆 Best Boundary Umpire — Sasha Pallis
In an exceptionally strong and competitive group, Sasha’s natural running ability, eagerness to learn and consistent performances helped her stand out.
Since joining The Den in 2025, she has progressed quickly, regularly umpiring Year 11/12 football and earning an invitation to trial for the talent pathway. Sasha’s ability to take on feedback and immediately apply it reflects her exciting potential.
Congratulations, Sasha! We can’t wait to see what comes next. 💙💛

🏆 Most Dedicated Boundary Umpire — Christian Gillies
Christian enjoyed a standout season, quickly establishing himself as a reliable and talented boundary umpire. His commitment to improving was clear through the way he actively sought feedback and immediately applied it to his next performance.
Christian’s exceptional training engagement, clear communication and eagerness to umpire as many games as possible made him a deserving winner. We wish him well with the Claremont Football Development team—but reckon his best chance of reaching the MCG might be with the whistle!
Congratulations, Christian! 💙💛

🏆 Best Goal Umpire — Harry McFarlane
In only his second year of goal umpiring, Harry consistently demonstrated confidence, excellent presentation and an impressive understanding of positioning.
His strong performances, coachability and positive presence helped him stand out in a highly competitive group of goal umpires.
Congratulations, Harry! 💙💛

🏆 Most Dedicated Goal Umpire — Oceanna Chick
Oceanna’s commitment was clear throughout the season, attending almost every training session and goal umpiring in 12 of 14 rounds—the most of anyone in the squad.
Her work rate and match-day performances improved significantly, earning praise from several coaches. Now talent identified for the WAFL, Oceanna has a bright future ahead of her.
Congratulations, Oceanna! 💙💛