It is no secret that we need more umpires at all levels. In the South Central area itself, there is a shortage and all clubs are generally struggling with the same challenges we do each week.

Without new umpires and higher qualified umpires, the shortage will get worse. Friendlies, summer hockey, Juniors’ sessions/games, and training sessions/matches are a good place to practice our umpiring skills.

The club is aiming to have a sustainable umpire development plan, currently being done on ad-hoc cases.

We are aware this plan is ambitious but with teamwork, we can succeed.

For those new to umpiring, we will always try and pair experienced umpires with you, kit you out with radios to build confidence and also ensure that you are umpire at a lower level first, slowly building you up to where you are comfortable and then stretching you and your umpiring skills.

Picking up a whistle and umpiring can give you a better understanding of the rules as a player and it give you a very different approach to someone umpiring your game.

Any questions please reach out to the SBHC Umpire Liaison. .

Remember, no umpires - no games.