Future in Focus: Young Umpires Step Up at Hampshire Theory Evening

On Friday 27 June, more than 30 young people took their first steps into the world of hockey umpiring as part of the Hampshire Hockey Player Pathway’s Young Umpire Development Programme.

Held at Trojans Hockey Club, the evening was led by the brilliant Steve Godwin from South Central Officiating. The group started out on the pitch, exploring how to position themselves effectively and getting to grips with the all-important whistle. It was great to see everyone joining in, asking questions, and beginning to build the confidence they’ll need on match day.

After that, the session moved indoors, where Steve talked about the vital role umpires play in the sport. The discussion touched on the mindset of a good umpire, how to be confident when making decisions, and why it’s okay to make mistakes while learning. The evening stayed light and supportive, with plenty of opportunity for interaction and shared experience.

This theory evening is just the beginning. Next up is the practical element of the programme, where these young umpires will be out on the pitch during the U13–15 Development Centre Match Days on 5 and 6 July.

Meet Our 2024/25 Young Umpires

Not everyone could attend the theory evening, but we’re delighted to have the following umpires signed up and ready to go:

Imogen Barbe, Olivia Barbe, Ally Bell, Phoebe Bulkeley, Erin Callaghan,Jessica Dudman, Caitlin Ferguson, Nathan Foster, Sebastian Foster, George Gilfoyle, Elliott Hart, Campbell Hope-MacLellan, Poppy Keville, Mia Lawrence, Milo Lawson, Hugo McBride, Thea Middleton, Finn Moonen. Sophie Morris. Declan Nicholls, Rory Scott, George Shanks, Daniel Sinnott, Edward Slade, Cian Smallwood-Butler, Emily Spicer, Ellis Temperley-Chapman, Olivia Turner, Drew Wigginton. Matilda Wroath-Hickley, Tegan Yates

These young umpires are stepping up to take on a role that requires calm under pressure, good communication, and the courage to make decisions in real time. Umpiring your first match is not easy — it can be nerve-wracking, especially with little or no experience — but it’s also hugely rewarding and an important part of keeping the game running smoothly and fairly.

We are so grateful to every one of these young people for offering their time and energy to support our match days. Their willingness to get involved shows real character, and we admire their determination to learn something new.

Please join us in giving them your full support — not just during training, but on the pitch as well. On match day, a little encouragement from players, coaches, and spectators can go a very long way.

Let’s help them build confidence and enjoy the experience as much as possible!