USA Field Hockey Offering Online, 3-Week Beginner & Level 1 Umpire Clinic

USA Field Hockey is offering an online Beginner and Level 1 Umpire Clinic that will start Monday, August 21 and run for three consecutive weeks. 

After much interest during the previous online clinics, USA Field Hockey’s Director of Umpiring Sean Rapaport will continue the opportunity for others to learn the beginner aspects of umpiring. He credits many fantastic mentors and regular education opportunities during his early years of officiating at high school and club level for creating the foundation for a long and successful career in the sport. He will share some of the key building blocks, tools and ideas that one should possess when developing into a good, consistent umpire. Many of the concepts shared will be beneficial to not only umpires but also coaches, athletes and parents looking to understand and enjoy the game even more. 

Each session of the Beginner and Level 1 Umpire Clinic will take place on Monday evenings, August 21, 28 and September 4, from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET. All sessions will be presented using Google Meet and the link will be shared with registered participants. 

 The cost of the Beginner and Level 1 Umpire Clinic is $25 for USA Field Hockey Members and $50 for non-USA Field Hockey Members. Registration is now open and will close on Sunday, August 20 at 11:59 p.m. ET. 

This online clinic is designed for the beginner umpire, those who are looking to umpire at the middle and high school levels, junior field hockey in recreational leagues this fall and those who have less than 5 years’ experience in umpiring. This clinic is also a great start for athletes, coaches and parents who are thinking of getting into officiating. 

Topics to be covered by USA Field Hockey’s Director of Umpiring Sean Rapaport: 

Module 1: Monday, August 21 - Positioning, Signals and Communication 

Module 2: Monday, August 28 - Infringements, Free Hits, Danger and Aerials 

Module 3: Monday, September 4 - Penalty Corners, Penalty Strokes and Personal Penalties 

 For questions, please contact Sean Rapaport at srapaport@usafieldhockey.com.