BLOW THAT WHISTLE:

Hope everyone so far has enjoyed their umpiring. For the umpires who are not confident we have a "Runner" to run and support them throughout the game.

I would like to thank Emily Holzberger, Abi Meafou and Takita Weaver who have been runners every week so far, plus umpiring themselves also.

As the girls get more confidence they seem to enjoy the umpiring rather than loathing it, because of worry and stress of not being good enough.

Now about blowing that whistle: When you are learning to umpire you see things then in the next instance you doubt yourself. This is what creates the hesitance and then the moment is gone. I have watched it on our own junior games this season, and as we are all aware it is very frustrating.

This is why you need to BLOW the WHISTLE, the words can come as you get better. At first at least just tell the team who has won the ball its their pass. Your runner can help you clarify the rule if need be.

RULE OF THE WEEK:

13.2 (iii) & (iv) Page 28 of the rule book:

A player may not attempt to gain possession of the ball while lying, sitting or kneeling on the ground

A player may not throw the ball while lying, sitting or kneeling on the ground.

PENALTY: Free pass to the opposion team where the infringement occured.

See you next week,

Max