Law 16: Umpiring Qualities and Skills

The six are match preparation, whistling, signalling, co-operation, communication, and mobility and positioning.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.1 · recall

Both umpires check the field markings, the goals and the nets, and look for dangerous equipment.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.2 · recall

The two umpires wear similar colours to one another, but different from those of both teams.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.2 · recall

The tone and duration of the whistle are varied to communicate the seriousness of offences.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.3 · recall

Signals must be clear and held up long enough for all players and the other umpire to be aware of the decision.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.4 · recall

Directional signals must not be made across the body; it is better to be stationary when signalling.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.4 · recall

Looking away can mean further offences are missed, concentration is lost, or the umpire appears to lack confidence.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.4 · recall

The kit includes the current Rules, a whistle, a stopwatch, green, yellow and red cards, and a way to record match details.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.2 · applied

Arrive early, check the field, agree on co-operation, then start.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.2, 3.5; Rule 11.6 · applied

Whistle, official signal held long enough, and eyes on the players throughout.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.3, 3.4 · applied

Before the match the umpires discuss and agree how they are going to work together.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.5 · recall

Umpires assist an unsighted colleague and, if mobility allows, go as far as appropriate into the colleague's half.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.5 · applied

Both umpires keep a record of goals scored and cards issued and confirm it at the end of the match.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.5 · recall

Explanations should be concise and must not lead to prolonged discussion.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.6 · recall

Each umpire operates mainly in half of the field with the centre-line to their left.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.7 · recall

In general the most suitable position is ahead of and on the right of the attacking team.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.7 · recall

Umpires move away from the side-line and, when necessary, into the circle to see offences and judge shots.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.7 · recall

The controlling umpire stands behind and to the right of the taker (spot 1); the supporting umpire stands on the back-line to the left of the goal.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.7 · applied

From the side-line in midfield to deeper positions as play enters the 23-metres area and the circle.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.7 · applied

Eye contact and help across the centre-line reassure players that decisions are correct.

Source: FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 3.5 · applied