Umpires contribute to the game by:
• Helping to raise the standard of the game at all levels by ensuring that players observe the rules
• Ensuring that every game is played in the right spirit
• Helping to increase the enjoyment of the game for players, spectators and others.

Umpires must:
• Have a thorough knowledge of the rules of hockey but remember that the spirit of the rule and common sense must govern interpretation
• Support and encourage skilful play, deal promptly and firmly with offences and apply the appropriate penalties
• Establish control and maintain it throughout the match
• Use all the available tools for control
• Apply the advantage rule as much as possible to assist a flowing and open match but without losing control.

When a Level 1 candidate feels ready, they can book themselves onto an online course via the England Hockey website:
England Hockey's Online Training Hub

Once the course has been completed, they are ready to start umpiring and must register on GMS as an Umpire in order to benefit from umpiring insurance and gain recognition as having qualified (Level 1 Unassessed). It should be noted that Standard Adult League Regulations for East Region section 11 stipulates what level of Umpiring qualification is required at each Grade.

A Level 1 Unassessed umpire should gain as much experience as possible before being assessed and this should be within two years of completing their course.
Currently, East Region has not offered a definitive route to accessing an Assessor and so Gemma Shepherd can assist with contacting a suitable Assessor.

We are always in need of umpires and so we encourage anyone who like to get qualified to take the plunge and book themselves onto a course. The larger our bank of umpires, the more we can spread the load!

Umpiring is a challenging but rewarding activity which keeps you involved in the sport we love, outside of playing, and still counts as a fitness activity as you walk, jog and sometimes sprint up and down the side line!