Umpiring

Regardless of your age, ability or experience of playing hockey, if you have a passion for our game and wish to be involved in other ways, then umpiring could be for you. Whether you choose to umpire adults or juniors, there are multiple ways of supporting you as you start your journey in umpiring. 

People’s reasons for taking up the whistle vary; this could be to support the junior section in your club, to learn more about the rules and interpretations of the game, or to enable you to perform at the highest levels of the game. 

As a new or inexperienced umpire, there are multiple resources available to help you to get started. The Hockey Hub is a central location for all our coaches and umpires, it is filled with courses and information including resources and insightful videos for all different types of umpiring including Quicksticks (a four-a-side game for 7-11-year olds), In2Hockey (a six/seven-a-side game for 10-14-year olds) and more. You can also sign up to online courses that will help you deliver your sessions.

If you’re looking to take your first steps into umpiring, England Hockey offers a flexible and supportive learning pathway designed to fit around your schedule. Whether you’re confident making decisions on the pitch or just getting started, there’s a course for you.

Once you’ve gained some experience, your local Area Officiating Committee can help you find matches and develop your skills further. If you decide to progress, there are clear steps all the way to national and international level.

So, whether you want to support your club or dream of officiating at the top level, it all starts with the first course.

Find more information below on Level 1 Umpiring.

A small number of umpires each year will complete a programme of study to complete their National Hockey Umpire award, allowing them to become a member of the National Programme Umpiring Association (NPUA). Working closely with England Hockey, the NPUA is responsible for the development of umpires operating in the National Leagues and internationally.

LEVEL 1 UMPIRING

Build your understanding, confidence, and enjoyment as an umpire:

This blended learning module will help you understand the rules, grow your confidence, and contribute to a safe and fun hockey environment — whether your brand new to umpiring or just starting your journey.

Find out more about the Level 1 Umpiring Course below:

WHAT WILL YOU GAIN?

Understanding: Develop a comprehensive grasp of hockey rules and game dynamics, enabling you to make accurate decisions on the pitch.

Clarity: Clearly define your responsibilities and duties as an umpire, ensuring you can effectively manage matches and uphold fair play.

Confidence: Build significant self-assurance in your umpiring abilities through practical learning and interactive sessions, empowering you to officiate with authority.

Contribution: Learn how your role directly contributes to fostering a safe, enjoyable, and positive environment for all participants in the sport.

WHAT WILL YOUR ORGANISATION GAIN?

Increased Umpiring Capacity: Grow your pool of qualified and confident umpires, ensuring more effective and fair game management within your organisation.

Improved Game Flow: Benefit from umpires who understand the rules and can contribute to a safer and more enjoyable playing environment for all participants.

Enhanced Match Quality: Support fair play and consistent rule application, leading to a higher standard of hockey matches.

Community Engagement: Foster a more engaged and knowledgeable community by providing accessible training for individuals interested in officiating.

WHAT TO EXPECT?

This blended learning approach combines two short e-learning modules—Safeguarding Awareness (30 mins) and a Rules Test (30 mins)—with a 2-hour online facilitated workshop. Upon successful completion of all components, you will receive a certificate of completion and achieve Level 1 Unassessed status. You’ll also be signposted to further support and resources to help you continue developing your umpiring skills.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

This course is designed for anyone who is 14 and over and is looking to start their umpiring journey.

WORKSHOP DATES AND REGISTRATION

Workshops will close two days before the event, with a maximum of 24 places available. Book now to avoid disappointment via Hockey Hub (link).

* Please note – To access this workshop for free, you must be associated with a club. You can manage your association through your Hockey Hub profile and your club will be notified of this association.