THIRSK HOCKEY CLUB YOUNG UMPIRE SUCCESS

When Thirsk Ladies 2nd played against Leeds University 5th in a top of the table clash in Division 6 of the Yorkshire Hockey League on 30th January, 15 year old Ellie Skippings of Thirsk Hockey Club was one of the umpires.  During this game she was assessed by a North of England Umpire assessor to determine whether she could be awarded her England Hockey Level 1 Umpire Award.  This award is the passport to umpire all England Hockey adult club competitions and local / county level leagues although until she is 18 she should have an adult umpire mentor with her when officiating at adult games.  In order to gain the award Ellie first had to attend a series of theory presentations followed by a written test, which she passed with a score of 94%.  She then had to umpire three practice matches before her assessment in a suitable 11-a-side hockey match in a competitive league or competition, which she completed successfully.The achievement of this award makes her one of the youngest qualified umpires in the North East and she has recently been placed on the Yorkshire Young Umpires Promising List which means that her progress will be monitored and she will be able to receive regular coaching from experienced umpire coaches who work with the county and regional Young Umpire Action Groups.  England Hockey has set up a system whereby young umpires can be developed in a safe, structured and supportive way to achieve their full potential.  Ellie is really pleased with her award and is keen to take advantage of the opportunities that arise and become as good an umpire as she can be. The pictures attached show Ellie in action. Regrettably the game was lost by Thirsk 1-0, the team’s only defeat so far this season.The Carlton Miniott and Sessay Primary Schools, who were the top two finishers in the Thirsk Cluster Primary School league, last week competed in the North Yorkshire Schools Mini Hockey Championships at St. Peters School in York. Both teams represented themselves well, and played some exciting open hockey. In the match between the two schools Carlton Miniott won a closely fought game 1-0.  Overall Carlton Miniott finished 2nd and Sessay 4th. As one of the top two finishers, Carlton Miniott will now go on to compete in the North East of England Schools Mini Hockey Championships in March. Thirsk Hockey Club assist the primary schools with coaching and all young players are welcome to join our training sessions. Details can be found on our web site.


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