Tuesday, February 10: Reaching 1,000 matches in any sporting role is a significant achievement. Achieving it as an umpire reflects a lasting dedication to the game. For Robert Johnston, this milestone represents 24 seasons of service to hockey, a journey that began on Friday, September 20, 2002, when he was first appointed to officiate a match between Larne and Portrush.
From that first whistle, Robert approached umpiring with a level of professionalism and enthusiasm that has remained constant throughout his career. A defining feature of his officiating journey has been his meticulous record-keeping. Every match has been documented, reflecting not only an appreciation for statistics but also a deep respect for the craft of officiating and for hockey itself. Those records now provide a detailed picture of a career spent on pitches across the country.
Across his 1,000 matches, Robert has witnessed 4,952 goals. Among those fixtures was a memorable high-scoring encounter in 2019, when Lisnagarvey recorded a 17–0 victory. At the other end of the spectrum, he has overseen just six scoreless draws.
His umpiring has taken him far and wide. Robert has travelled more than 75,000 miles in total, including 61,000 miles across Ireland. During that time, he has officiated matches involving 240 different teams. Banbridge appear most frequently in his records, featuring in 139 games, while Lisnagarvey’s home pitch on Comber Road in Hillsborough is the venue he has visited more than any other.
Robert has also shared the field with 240 different umpires, working alongside them to ensure matches are played in the spirit intended, while helping so many to learn and develop on their own umpiring journeys.
The range of competitions he has covered is equally noteworthy. His experience spans 105 different tournaments, including nearly 250 Ulster Premier League matches, around 150 fixtures in the EY Hockey League and Irish Hockey League, and 45 Outdoor and Indoor Finals.
Even the weather has played its part in Robert’s records. He has officiated 358 matches in sunny conditions, a figure that surprised even him, alongside 112 rainy outings and 10 games played in stormy weather.
Congratulations to Robert on such a distinguished career. Thank you for your dedication to hockey, your professionalism, and your commitment to officiating. We wish you the very best in your future matches as your journey continues.