Community umpire course builds strong domestic future of officiating
Field Hockey Canada is excited to launch the National Outdoor Community Umpire Course. Field Hockey Canada continues to focus the drive from coast to coast to coast to build and grow a strong domestic field hockey community. To do so, strong officiating and considerable depth in our officiating pool is required. This course is a key part of a sustainable and successful future at all levels. Through the work of our Officials Committee, Field Hockey Canada is delighted to see this course come into effect.
Accessible across Canada, this is an important step to growing a strong group of officials to facilitate domestic hockey – and indeed we hope many will progress through the ranks into provincial, nationals and possibly even international exposure. Field Hockey Canada would like to recognize the work of the Officials Committee in the development of this course and in particular committee member and international umpire Lelia Sacre for her leadership.
The Outdoor Community Umpire Course is a critical step in Field Hockey Canada’s commitment to growing and strengthening officiating across the country. By making this course easily accessible online, FHC is removing barriers to entry, ensuring that aspiring umpires can engage with the material at their own pace. This initiative aligns with FHC’s broader goal of developing a clear and supportive officiating pathway, fostering a well-trained and confident officiating community.
The Outdoor Community Umpire Course is the first step in the Field Hockey Canada umpiring pathway. Designed for accessibility, this online course allows participants to complete the training at their own pace through the FHC website. The course includes:
- Interactive modules covering the basics of umpiring
- Video examples to reinforce key concepts
- Real-game scenarios to enhance decision-making
- A self-paced structure to accommodate all schedules
Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certificate, which will be shared with their Provincial Sport Organization (PSO) to confirm their eligibility for on-field assessment.
“The Field Hockey Canada Officials Committee is excited to launch the Outdoor Community Umpire Course, making umpiring more accessible than ever. This course is a key step in developing confident, well-prepared officials to support clubs and leagues across Canada.” – Lelia Sacre
Stay tuned for the Provincial Indoor Umpire Course due to launch this September.
Field Hockey Canada Officials Committee
| Laurie Hogan | Chair |
| Paula Parks | |
| Susan Ahrens | |
| Mario DeMello | |
| Margaret Johnson | |
| Lelia Sacre | |
| Brenda Rushton | |
