Umpiring is one of the most practical ways to get more involved in hockey. You do not need to begin as an expert, and you do not need to have everything worked out before taking the first step.
If you are a player, parent, supporter or former player who would like to understand the game better and contribute in a different way, 2027 is a good time to explore umpiring at Greensborough Hockey Club.
Start with the Foundation Support Umpire accreditation
Hockey Australia’s current umpiring pathway begins with the Foundation Support Umpire accreditation. It is the first national umpiring accreditation and is designed to introduce the fundamental rules and responsibilities of officiating.
The course is completed online through HockeyEd and is currently free. Hockey Australia indicates that it takes about two hours to complete and does not expire.
View the Hockey Australia Foundation Umpiring pathway.
What comes after that?
The next step is the Foundation Lead Umpire accreditation. This combines online learning with a practical assessment while umpiring full-field hockey or Hockey5s. The accreditation is valid for three years.
You do not need to rush through the pathway. The important first step is to build confidence with the rules, understand positioning and decision-making, and get experience at a level that suits you.
Registration requirements from 2026
From 2026, Hockey Australia requires coaches and officials, including umpires, to register through RevSport in their relevant role. Accreditation and registration are managed through the national and state hockey systems rather than by GHC.
Visit HockeyEd for current education information, or see Hockey Victoria’s umpire information.
How GHC can help
Greensborough Hockey Club can help explain how the external accreditation pathway fits with local hockey and where an aspiring umpire may be able to gain suitable experience.
The club does not guarantee appointments, mentoring allocations or payment, but it can help you understand the next steps and the types of opportunities that may be available.
Why give umpiring a go?
Umpiring can help you see the game differently. It can improve your understanding of rules, positioning, advantage, player safety and game flow. It is also a useful way to stay connected with hockey if playing is not your only priority.
For younger players and adults alike, the pathway can begin gradually. You can learn first, ask questions, build confidence and then take on appropriate games as your experience grows.
Take the first step
Start with the club’s Umpire Development page. It brings together the GHC pathway, current accreditation information and the practical next steps.
If you would like the club to contact you about getting involved, use the Volunteer Interest Form and mention that you are interested in umpiring.