Netball NSW’s 2020 Umpire A Camp was another success with officials from all over the state converging on Sydney Olympic Park on Saturday 1 February.
In total 29 National A umpires attended the Camp at Netball Central, which was hosted by Netball NSW umpire coach – and former international official – Sharon Kelly OAM.
Among the sessions covered were the following:
- Engaging with coaches
- Position, vision and timing techniques
- Resilience
- The Comfort Zone
- Decision making and rule updates
Alongside Kelly, a host of other experienced AA and international umpires oversaw sessions, such as Maureen Boyle OAM, Bronwen Adams, Clare McCabe and Emma Donaldson.
Participants were also treated to a session on sports psychology from NSW Swifts team psychologist Karen Haddad.
“I would like to thank everyone who attended this Camp, which was very beneficial for everyone who attended,” Kelly said.
“As well as on-court learning, I think it’s very important that our officials feel supported outside of the game too.
“Umpiring at all levels can be stressful, and there are high-pressure situations, so having Karen come in and speak about dealing with mental processes in elite sport was very important.
“We were also privileged to have some of the best in the game hold sessions with our next wave of talent.
“It is fantastic to see so many officials reach this point and it bodes very well for the future. Elite netball only works when we have top officials and the commitment of these people to their craft is impressive.”
