The introduction of the new dissent rule has created notable change within the umpiring fraternity, according to AFL Head of Umpiring Dan Richardson.
Amidst a swarm of anger from fans, media, and players alike, the main purpose of the new tougher stance on player dissent towards umpires has been achieved.
Speaking on SEN’s Crunch Time former Collingwood assistant coach Brenton Sanderson revealed he had discussions with Richardson and was told the new rule has led to his umpires feeling more respected and at ease during the heat of play.
“What if I told you this. I spoke to Dan Richardson this week and the (AFL) umpires have never had more enjoyment umpiring the game on the back of this (dissent) rule,” Sanderson explained.
Sanderson spoke to umpires at the lower levels as well and explained how they view the new rule and its implementation at the local level.
“I’ve also had the discussion with community umpires who actually don’t mind (the new rule),” he said.
“We’re not going to see this extent at community sport because part of the community spirit is the interaction and the enjoyment that players and umpires have on the field.
“So, I don’t think we’re going to get to that point (in suburban footy) where they’re going to be almost robotic.
“But this is a change that we need to make because we got away with it for far too long, and the way we’ve treated umpires has been disappointing and poor for way too long.”
It comes after Saints winger Daniel McKenzie was the first victim of the tightened dissent rules on Friday night, giving away a 50-metre penalty for suggesting the ball hit the ground before being marked.
Continued controversy is inevitable, but the umpiring department clearly stands by its decision and shows no signs of back-flipping.