2026 NHA UMPIRES

• Week 0- April 30th 5:00 pm-6:00 pm

Introductory meeting – all interested umpires to attend

Rule overview – signals primary and intermediate rule set explained – expectations around how the games should be managed.

Whistling Techniques

Positioning on field.

Set expectations around – uniforms, check in times, communication with players and umpires whilst on the field.

expectations around player, coach and spectator behavior and how to manage any issues that arise. 

Set Goals

 

• Week 1 – 6th May 2026

Umpire positioning and teamwork

Signaling & communication with players

Managing difficult players

Intermediate – Danger / dangerous play (lifted balls) and safety of players

 

• Week 2 -3 13th and 20th May 

Causal catch up work with individuals as required

Watch games as able

Ensure consistent application of rules by all Junior Umpires

Identify any trends that need to be resolved before becoming bad habits – bad positioning, poor signaling etc.

 

• Week 4 – 27th May Post Round Umpire meeting

Feedback from weeks 1-3 review any trends identified.

Reinforce positioning throughout game and circle positioning

Stick obstruction / back of stick

Clear communication of decisions clear indication of ruling and arm use, explanation of why decision was made e.g. free hit white (signal) for foot.(secondary signal)

PC positioning and why we are positioned a certain way

Rules Q & A

Goal setting for individuals 

 

• Week 5-6 3rd – 10th June

Causal Catch up, work with individuals as required.

Watch Games as able

 

• Week 7 – 17th June

 

Umpire observations by mentors – notes in book

Review game management and dealing with disruptive players

Coaches and supporters

Review signaling and communication amongst umpires and with players

 

• Week 8 – 24th June – Post Round umpire meeting (mid season review)

Rule Quiz, scenario discussions 

Review Whistling Techniques / confidence

Review Goal progress adjust as required/ review feedback book 

Season Review

 

• Week 9 – 1 Jul 

Causal Catch up, work with individuals as required.

Watch Games as able

 

• Week 10 – 11 8th – 15th Jul

No Games

 

• Week 12 – 22nd Jul

Umpire observations by mentors – notes in book

Review expectations around punctuality uniform and game management

 

• Week 13-14 – 29th Jul 5th Aug 

Causal Catch up, work with individuals as required.

Watch Games as able

 

• Week 15 – 12 Aug 

Work on common errors and positioning fine tuning,

Review personal goals see if goals have been met

 

• Week 16 – 19th Aug

Review Individuals goals and fine tune as required

 

• Week 17 – 26 Aug 

End of Season wrap up