AFL Debut For Local UmpireWednesday, August 6, 2025 - 3:29 PM

WA boundary umpire Bailey Foulk will realise a dream when he walks onto Optus Stadium before the West Coast Eagles host the Adelaide Crows on Sunday.

The 24-year-old received a phone call last week out of the blue.

“To be honest, I am still a little shocked and lost for words,” Foulk said.

“There is a lot of excitement but there are also a few nerves.

“I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and super pumped to go out there and do my thing on Sunday.

“I was driving and received a call from Darren Wilson, the Head AFL Boundary Coach on Friday night.

“At first it was a general chat about my season so far and had no idea the news that was coming.

“I was extremely shocked and just overcome with joy that I will be provided with such an amazing opportunity.” 

 Bailiey began his umpiring journey eight years ago.

“I started umpiring with the South Fremantle Junior Umpiring District in 2017,” he said.

“Then came elevation to the WAFL panel at the end of 2019 and did my first Colts Grand Final in 2020.

“My League debut came in 2021 and did a second Colts Grand Final in 2021.

“My first League Grand Final was in 2022 and have done the last three consecutive League deciders.

“I actually have only ever been a boundary umpire and have never field umpired a game or intended on being a field umpire.” 

Reaching the AFL has meant sacrifices and support from those within WA Football.

“There have been quite a few people over my journey that have been a huge part of my umpiring career,” Foulk said.

“My head coach Geoff O’Neill has been a huge support and part of my journey over the last couple of years, and I am super appreciative of his support and guidance.

“A mentor of mine that has had a major impact on me personally and my umpiring, has been AFL umpire Nathan Doig.

“Nathan has done over 400 AFL games but has always made the effort and time to answer any questions, support me with my development and allow me to train with him over the last 3 pre-seasons.

“He is the most humble person I've ever met and is always pushing me to achieve my best and I am extremely grateful to be able to run on the same side as him this Sunday. 

A physical education teacher at North Harrisdale Primary School, Bailey plans to enjoy the experience.

“There is always going to be some nerves, but I have worked so hard to achieve this dream of mine that I have been working towards for a while,” he said.

 “I have done some big games but none as big as this Sunday and I am pumped and ready to go out and give it my absolute all and just be me this Sunday.

“At the end of the day it's just a game.”