The Umpire Lead for Netball Northern in New Zealand, Sharleen Morrell, was present at the national men’s championship last week to coach and assess the 12 umpires who participated in the two-day championship.

Netball Fiji plans to accredit some of its top umpires with the Netball NZ C award, and part of the process involves assessing and coaching them by an umpire assessor from New Zealand.

Morrell emphasised the importance of developing local umpires to raise the standard of the games they officiate.

“There are a total of 12 umpires working throughout the games and receiving coaching. They have developed with each game and have really taken on board the coaching,” said Morrell.

“It’s crucial for umpires to receive coaching and gain experience in a variety of games. We’re working to-wards helping them obtain their New Zealand C award.”

When asked about assessing these umpires at the men’s game, Morrell explained that the men’s style of play is distinct and will challenge the umpires to improve their calls.

“Pushing themselves in men’s netball is beneficial for their growth. The men play a different style, and it can be a fast aerial game, which stretches the umpires’ techniques and encourages them to improve their umpiring skills.

“During these two days, all twelve umpires have shown significant growth. They have embraced the coaching and have been a pleasure to work with. I have conducted one-on-one sessions with them, engaged in question and answer sessions, and they have been able to work on their technique, collaborate as a group, and receive more coaching,” added Morrell.

Netball Fiji will also consider sending Fiji’s most accredited umpires to the Honiara Pacific Games in Solomon Islands later this year.

Source: Netball Fiji

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