Don’t underestimate the importance of umpires – it takes athleticism, rules knowledge and hard work. They’re as important to the game as highly skilled players. So why do it? There are many different reasons to umpire and plenty of benefits too; It helps you keep up to date with new rules, keeps you fit, but most importantly, allows you to give something back to the game and the club. Sound good? We’ve grabbed some time with some of the club’s fantastic umpires to get a better understanding of what inspired them to give it a go, the best bits, and of course, the challenges. Here’s what Dave Dunford had to say:

What made you start umpiring?
To be a better player by understanding the game through umpiring and to help with club games due to shortage of umpires.

What skills have you learnt?
Better knowledge on what is expected of an umpire.

What have you learnt about the game as a player since umpiring?
To be more tolerant with umpires and to know the rules better.

What do you like about umpiring?
Helping the club with games.

What advice would you give to people thinking of umpiring?
Do not think of it as too challenging. Most games and players simply want positive, unbiased umpiring. You are an asset to the club and members to appreciate your time.

What is the hardest thing about umpiring?
Being confident with yourself. Time and experience will give you this. Reading the game and making decisions on what you can see. Dealing with dissent– but this is rare.

If this has sparked some interest and you want to give something back to the game and the club, we’ve got a great opportunity for you to get involved. England Hockey is offering an online Umpire Level 1 training course on the following dates:

UPDATE
Oxfordshire HUA are running a virtual Club Umpire developer course next Sunday (29th November, starting at 10:00). This is an EH course for anyone who wishes to become a Club Umpire Developer and help with developing umpiring in their club. Cost is, I think, £10 and an EH certificate will be awarded on successful completion of the course. More details from Ray Hipkin (ray@rayhipkin.co.uk).

Thursday 26th November
Level 1 umpires course
Online £30 7.30 - 9.30pm
Attendees must be at least 14 years old

Friday 4th December
Level 1 umpires course
Online £30 12.00 - 14.00pm
Attendees must be at least 14 years old

Wednesday 9th December
Level 1 umpires course
Online £30 7.30 - 9.30pm
Attendees must be at least 14 years old

Sunday 13th December
Level 1 umpires course
Online £30 10.00 - 12.00
Attendees must be at least 14 years old

Tuesday 15th December
Level 1 umpires course
Online £30 7.30 - 9.30pm
Attendees must be at least 14 years old

Need to know:
• 2-hour duration
• Course is made up of 4 modules; ‘The game from a player’s perspective’, ‘The role of the umpire’, ‘Player management’, ‘Preparation and planning the next steps’.
• On completion you’ll receive your Level 1 Umpires Certificate.
• The cost of the course will be reimbursed by the club if you go on to umpire more than two matches.

If you have any questions on the above courses, or just fancy having a chat about umpiring, please contact the marketing team for more information.