Netball has changed markedly over the last five years and with the increased speed, athleticism and skill levels of the players, has come an increased level of physical contest that presents challenges for umpires.

An umpire's role is to facilitate a flowing, enjoyable game for all participants, including players, coaches, administrators, spectators and other officials. The approach that umpires take into each game plays a large part in the success of the game for all. To continue the progress of Netball umpires must, along with all facets of the game, develop and push boundaries.

Education and Training

In this year's plan the E&T group hope to deliver another 3 B Award Umpire courses, B Award Umpire practical tests, a Table Officials course and a pilot project for the new Youth Umpire Award. The group also hopes to work with counties to establish a local TYUP programme for umpires working towards the regional programme and work with potential mentors in these counties by initially running umpire mentor workshops across the region.

This year the group will also be responsible for rolling out the Umpire Tutor Re-accreditation programme throughout  the South West to ensure current tutors retain their accreditation for another 4 years.

Further details will be posted here as soon as arrangements have been made, however if you have a specific requirement please contact Danny Neill or Patsy Colvin Co Chairs of the Education and Training Working Group.

Umpire Development Pathway

The umpire development pathway shows you, the umpire, a progressive ladder of achievement. The model is not designed to dictate the pathway you must take but simply displays the next and correct steps to take in your development as an umpire: