Umpire Development Program

Umpiring provides you so much more than just the ability to officiate the rules of the game. It can make you feel:

Connected – Umpiring is a great way to make friends for life and be an integral part of the vibrant netball community.

Respected – Umpires provide the opportunity for everyone to play the game in a safe, fair and enjoyable environment. Umpiring develops skills that can be used for life: communication, resilience and leadership.

Energised – Umpiring lets you experience the thrill of the game, contributes towards maintaining a healthy lifestyle and offers a pathway to participate in the sport at the highest level.

Led by the DDNA Umpire Head Trainer and Umpire Co-ordinator, DDNA provides a training and development program designed to give new umpires the confidence, knowledge and skills to become accomplished umpires. This is achieved through on-court mentoring and development, as well as umpiring courses and workshops.

Steps for entering the DDNA Umpire Development Program

• Read and understand the Netball Rules Book and Match Protocols for Umpires.
• Complete the online Theory of Netball Exam and the Foundation Umpiring Course (fee payable).

Please note that there are limited places available each season, and the Umpire Co-ordinator will contact you when a place becomes available.

Prior to taking court for the first time, ensure that you:

• Are a financially registered member of Netball Victoria
• Have completed the online theory exam (with a 70% + pass) and the Foundation Umpiring Course.
• Own a Current Rule Book and a Thunderer Whistle
• Have appropriate umpiring uniform, hair tied back, minimal jewellery etc.

Trainees are supplied with a trainer to support development, and umpire with experienced umpires. Trainee log books will be maintained each week, and mentors are also on hand to answer any questions and help develop decision-making skills.

As you develop, you will be recognized as “experienced”, and run without a trainer to build your confidence and progressively umpire higher and faster standard games. Mentors and senior umpires will continue to be on hand as part of the training support network. Remember, there is always someone there to support you and help you grow as a DDNA Umpire. Welcome to Team White.

Badging Competencies

All umpires are encouraged and supported to attain a minimum C Badge accreditation, with the potential to be guided on the umpiring pathway to a B badge. Visit Netball Australia for a list of Badging Competencies.

Purchasable from DDNA

• Whistles (Acme Thunderer) $28.00
• Official Rule Book $20.00