Occupation: P.E Teacher
Current award and date achieved: IUA, 14th July 2017
Year started umpiring Superleague: 2016
Career highlights:
Going to my first NE in 2013 in Gibraltar, a fantastic feeling!
Being selected for WYNC in Botswana, umpiring 10 games there and gaining my IUA award! wow, also reserving the final at WYNC.
Being selected to umpire England v Malawi. My first test series as an IUA.
How and when did you get involved in umpiring?
I became involved in umpiring in 2013 when my netball club needed two umpires to be able to play at league. My mentor saw something in me and ensured I pursued it!
What has been your favourite memory on or off court?
My favourite memory on the court has to be stepping on to the court every match at WYNC, I still couldn’t quite believe I was there, wearing the kit in the fantastic stadium.
A highlight was also umpiring with Gary Burgess when he umpired his 50th International match, and seeing my name on the email for inclusion at Superleague.
My favourite memories off the court has been the incredible lifelong friends I have made through umpiring. I really have made best friends for life.
Do you have any pre-match rituals before a game?
I absolutely have to put my right trainer on before my left and have no idea why. I have a set routine I complete with my roller and spikey ball, I cannot change the order I do the exercises or it stresses me out.
What are your aspirations for the future?
I just want to keep learning and improving! I absolutely love what I do and every game I umpire I give it my all and just feel so incredibly lucky to get opportunities to umpire, I just want to keep those opportunities coming.
Who has had the biggest influence on your umpiring so far?
I have had many influences, my major influence has been my dad. He always believed in me and told me to reach for the stars. My first mentor from Wales Sarah Jones definitely put me on this path, all of the assessors that have mentored and assessed me have had the biggest influence because they are helping me to improve every day and I cannot thank them enough.
What is your favourite song to train/work-out too?
It’s a bit of an oldie but always get me going. Martin Garrix – Animals
Do you have any embarrassing netball moments?
Ooh I think I have many, but I can’t think of any. I have fallen over umpiring many times haha. You’ll have to come back to me when I can think.
What is the best part about being a Superleague umpire?
I absolutely love everything single thing about umpiring at Superleague. I love being able to umpire the best players and teams in the country, but most of all I love umpiring with the best umpires in the country (and world) I have learnt so much and it is an incredible umpiring family to belong too.
Finally, what advice would you have for anyone who wants to Umpire in the Superleague in the future?
Be strong, be brave and just enjoy every single second. It is incredible to step out onto the court and travel around the country. Enjoy it!