Umpire’s equipment
- Whistle (on cord)
- Appropriate footwear
- Different coloured top from teams
- Rules book
- Scorecard
- Pencil (not pen)
- Hankie
- String
- Padding
- Tape for sticks
- Stopwatch – you need to time the game, time-outs, cards
- Thin or fingerless gloves
- Ball
- String & scissors (for goal net first aid)
Pre-game
- Set off in plenty time – get to venue at least 30 minutes before draw time, preferably more
- Make a good first impression / look professional
- Be well turned out (different colour from teams)
- Get yourself organised – make a checklist
Pre-match (together)
- Decide who is charge umpire
- Speak to captains to let them know what is happening iro timing
- Check goal nets
- Check pitch (safety) – holes, stones, debris
- Check players sticks, mouthguard, boots, jewellery (about 15 minutes before draw time)
- Get the captains together to toss for ends
- Warm-up – umpires need to warm up (preferably together)
- You may want to check where the first aid is but this is strictly the captains’ job.
During the game
- Keep it safe at all times
- Be decisive, objective, fair and unbiased
- Get familiar with your whistle – can’t abide wussy whistling
- Be firm but not a power crazed bully (assertive vs aggressive)
- Do not touch a player – point to where they have to go, don’t physically guide them
- Concentrate – commentary in your mind re the game not the people
- Anticipate – may prevent an accident
- Umpire’s decision is final. Don’t be intimidated. Don’t get into debates during play with players or supporters – the captains can discuss things with you at half time.
- You and the other umpire are the 3rd team on the pitch. Work together.
