The Young Umpire Programme runs in partnership with Hockey Ireland, the Provincial Umpire Associations and The IHUA.

The programme has a theory and practical element. The theory element gives Young umpires the chance to review footage from games in an interactive learning environment. While the practical element allows hands on experience under the guidance and direction of senior umpires for the duration of the programme and upcoming youth hockey season.

The course is 4 hours in duration. The Theory element takes around 1 hour and covers basics including positioning, signalling and general rules. The remainder of the course is spent gaining practical umpiring experience. The cost of the course is €20 per person, for this Young umpires will be given a workbook, whistle and t-shirt as part of the programme along with opportunities to umpire throughout the hockey season at youth hockey blitzes, final days and indoor competitions.

The course is designed for young people aged 14 to 18, focusing primarily on how to umpire youth hockey, looking specifically at U9, U11 and U13 hockey.

The Young Umpires course is the first course in the hockey umpiring pathway and is a great way to get a taste of umpiring.

For more information on upcoming courses or to run a course in your club please contact umpiring@hockey.ie