Eleni Tee (nee Glouftsis) is set to make history as the first mother to serve as a field umpire in an AFL game, returning to the field after maternity leave on Sunday, March 16, at Adelaide Oval, where her one-year-old son Levi will be in the crowd.
Tee, who became the first female field umpire in the AFL in 2017, will officiate the match between Adelaide and St Kilda in her hometown.
Tee and her husband, Dillon, a former AFL boundary umpire, welcomed their son Levi last February.
Tee, who has umpired 82 AFL/AFLW games, described the return as both exciting and nerve-wracking, saying, “I’m excited and nervous about all seasons, because you really care about it and want to do your best.”
Despite challenges of returning to umpiring after childbirth, Tee’s recovery was supported by pelvic floor physiotherapy and a careful fitness regimen.
She credits her husband’s support for allowing her to return to her dream job.
“It was such a blessing,” Tee said of Dillon’s help at home.
Tee also reflected on the AFL’s new four-umpire system, which reduces the physical demands of the role and made her decision to return easier.
“If I was in Melbourne, I probably would have retired,” Tee admitted.
“But because I had the option of being with my family and surrounded by my support network, it has worked.”
AFL officiating head Stephen McBurney praised Tee for her preparation, noting, “Her professionalism and dedication have been outstanding.”
Tee also believes that motherhood will give her a fresh perspective on umpiring decisions.
“You can’t change a decision… but dwelling doesn’t help in terms of your performance,” she said.
With her son Levi growing more interactive, Tee is excited to balance both motherhood and her career on the field, with her family cheering her on.
“He’s lots of fun to watch explore the world, which has been wonderful,” she said.
Source: The Advertiser.
