Thekla Papazoglov, 21, of Port Lincoln is following in her father Jim's footsteps but said she'll probably just stick to boundary umpiring.

The association held its first training for the new season last Wednesday evening at Ravendale and had an enthusiastic 20 young umpires turn up.

Every week during football season, 54 umpires are required to officiate all A grade, B grade and under 17 matches.

Umpires association coach and secretary Garry Downey said each week the league needed 18 field umpires not including junior matches.

He said it was great to see so many keen young umpires at the first training and welcomed anyone else who would like to have a go.

"Umpiring is good for fitness, good for the pocket and shows community spirit," Mr Downey said.

"It is also great to have Thekla, our first female umpire, come on board this season and we would encourage any other females who are interested to get involved."

Miss Papazoglov has returned to Port Lincoln after studying in Adelaide where she played footy herself.

"I loved playing footy and I wanted to keep involved in some way.

"I'll start with boundary umpiring and I'll probably just stick to that," she said.

Mr Downey said the association accepted male and female umpires that were aged from 13 and above.

"For a young developing player, umpiring is great for fitness and game realisation.

"It is also a great way for past players to give something back."

The Port Lincoln football season starts on the Anzac long weekend and Mr Downey said the umpires would have regular training every Wednesday from now on at 5.30pm at Ravendale oval.

For more information give Mr Downey a call on 0438 147 654.