Netball umpiring isn’t really about enforcing rules. It’s an integral part of the netball community.
Umpires are there to help keep the game safe, fair and fun for everyone.
As an umpire you can develop personal skills like communication, resilience and leadership.
Umpiring could provide you with a pathway into the world of professional sport.
Umpiring can provide you with so many opportunities. With clear development pathways establish to reach whatever level you wish to officiate at.
Umpiring
Step 1 - Starting to Umpire
Each year Liverpool City Netball hosts a Whistles In Mouths program for anyone from the Association who wishes to get started with Umpiring.
The program is aimed at umpires who are just getting started up to umpires with 2-3 years experience.
The program will be expanded to include a more comprehensive training and mentoring throughout the regular netball season.
Learn The Rules...
Reading the rule book can be a big task, the Whistle in Mouths Program is a great way to start to get a basic understanding of the rules as they will be broken down and demonstrated to you.
We do encourage our umpires to download the Netball Rulebook and to start to read through to get a better understanding of the exact rule.
Don't worry if it doesn't make sense the first time. By reading the rules, being apart of the Whistle in Mouths program and umpiring on a Saturday, eventually it will get easier.
Step 2 - Umpiring Competition Netball
Step 3 - Getting a National C Badge
Step 4 - Umpiring Representative Netball
Step 5 - Getting a National B Badge
Step 6 - Elite Umpiring and Beyond...
Participating in the Whistle in Mouths Program 2024 will give you the opportunity to umpire each Saturday in a safe and learning environment.
At each game you will be monitored and supported by your Mentor Umpire, while practicing your knowledge of the rules.
Clubs can also provide opportunities to umpire on a Saturday, your Mentor Umpire will always be available to help you!
During the games on Saturday's you will practice
where to stand to best see all aspects of play
what to say when enforcing the rules
what hand signals you need to use
The Rules of Netball Theory Examination tests the basic rules of the game.
It is an online examination that is accessible all year.
A certificate is generated for all candidates who achieve a pass (70% or above).
The most recent examination mark is the current result and Pass marks are valid for 4 years.
It is highly recommended that prior to commencing this exam you read a copy of the Rules of Netball (2024).
Since its launch in December 2021, Netball Learning has been the home of all education, training, and mentor opportunities for the Australian Netball community.
Both the Foundation Umpire Course and Rules of Netball Theory Examination are accessed via the Netball Learning Centre
The Foundation Umpire Course is one of the pre-requisites for obtaining a National C Badge and participating in the Elite Umpire Course.
Successful completion of the course provides you with one of the required pre-requisites for a National C Badge.
To receive a badge, you must complete a practical test on a local game. During the test you will be assessed on a set performance criteria.
You will need to demonstrate the appropriate knowledge, skills and techniques at a National C Badge standard.
The key areas are communication
and game management; positioning, vision and timing; contact; obstruction; advantage; and minor infringements.