Not Murphy’s Law for Steve’s 400th Hostplus SANFL League match

By ZAC MILBANK

Steve Murphy is still smiling after banking nearly three decades of surpeme service as a SANFL Goal Umpire. 

Beginning his journey with SANFL in 1990, Murphy officiated in his 400th Hostplus SANFL League match when he waved the flags on Sunday for the thrilling Round 3 Sturt v Woodville-West Torrens contest at Thomas Farms Oval.

”I’ve never been that big on numbers but once this week arrived, I thought about it a lot more and particularly thanks to some really nice messages from other past and current umpires – it actually became a proud moment,” Murphy said.

”I was lucky that I had a close game with a good crowd on a perfect day and almost got the dream kick after the siren to win the game.”

Murphy, who in his spare time can be heard on various radio stations as an announcer, has racked up a massive 582 appearances across multiple SANFL grades, including U18s, U16s and U14s.

His dedication and longevity has ensured he’s been fittingly recognised with both SANFL Umpire Life Membership and SANFL Umpiring Association Life Membership.

Earning the Andrew Vickers Medallion in 2011 as SANFL’s Most Dedicated Umpire, Murphy has also received a similar accolade with the SANFL Umpires Association on four occasions.

Featuring in as many as 23 SANFL League Finals, he has also officiated in two SANFL League Grand Finals, in 1996 and 2008.

”There’s been too many memorable games to mention including the obvious ones like first games both SANFL & AFL along with finals & Grand Finals, etc., first ever Showdown, Tony Modra’s game where he took mark of the year and missed a shot at goal from 2 metres out in the same game,” Murphy said.

”In terms of SANFL, one of the recent ones was Sturt’s big last minute win on Kings Birthday last year, but I could go on forever!”

And if that wasn’t enugh, Murphy managed to squeeze in 74 AFL games between 1995 and 2005.

Widely respected for his calm presence, accuracy, and contribution to the culture and standards of SANFL umpiring, Murphy is giving back off the field through his commitment to umpire development, contributing to SANFL Development and junior pathways across multiple age groups.

”When you really enjoy something, it’s not that hard to keep motivated, so while I’m physically able (which is probably not that much longer), I’ll keep going,” he said with a laugh.