This page has been created as a Tournament FAQ for umpires officiating at the 2026 World 9s in Melbourne.
What is the date of the World 9s?
Saturday 7 February, 2026
Where is the venue?
The World 9s will be played at Comely Banks Recreation Reserve.
The full address is 125 Bridge Road, Officer, located just off the M1 freeway.
You can watch a quick video of the venue here.
Who are the competing teams?
Men’s Division 1 – Ireland, Nauru, South Sudan, United Nations
Men’s Division 2 – Nauru, New Zealand, South Africa, Syria
Women’s Division – Australia, Fiji, Ireland, Nauru
Touch Footy Division 1 – Colombia, Ireland, Wales, United Nations
Touch Footy Division 2 – Canada, Cornwall, Malawi, Mexico, Netherlands, Philippines
Where can I find the fixture?
The fixture is available here.
What are the playing rules?
Men’s & Women’s Division – Match Rules.
Touch Footy Division – Match Rules.
The Touch Footy matches are very easy to umpire, with the major difference being that a tackle is replaced by a one hand touch.
We will also have an umpire’s briefing on match day to go over the rules.
Is there parking at the venue?
Yes.
What do I need to bring?
There is a dedicated umpire’s room in the clubhouse. This is where we will meet on match day.
Don’t forget to also bring yourself and a whistle! Current AFI umpires – please ensure you bring your existing AFI green shirt, AFI umpire cap, AFI umpire shorts, AFI umpire wristbands and AFI black socks.
Also, runners are recommended, but please bring your boots as this is Melbourne! On the subject of weather, you can find the weather forecast for Melbourne here.
Is there food & drink?
Yes, the Pakenham Eels Rugby Club will be providing a meal.
Also, as usual we will have our 30L Gatorade esky – which will be full, ice cold and for your use during the day (don’t forget to bring a water bottle). We will also supply plenty of lollies and bananas for you to enjoy as well.
Who are the umpires?
Please find below the umpires who have confirmed their availability.
Field Umpires
1. Laurie Girardo
2. Bruce Lister
3. Brendan Corcoran
4. Joe Tartaglia
5. Craig Glads
6. Dave Smith
7. Jonathan Tay
8. Avi Kulatunge
9. Luke Wong
10. Johnny Karalis
11. Ian Frances
12. Paul Dalton
13. O’Pili Paora
14. Glen Cooper
15. Luke Dalton
Goal Umpires
1. Robert Roscoe
2. Shelley Thomas
3. Neil Whatman
4. Eddie Kowalczrx
5. Ted Brooks
6. Melissa Tartaglia
7. Paolo Tartaglia
8. Jesse Bernal
Will there be a roster?
Yes! From experience the roster will evolve during the day – to account for people who need a break etc. But everyone will get plenty of games and the chance to rest as well.
How much fun is it going to be?
Heaps! See you soon 🙂
