Umpires course at Hasland
by Paul Barker, 16th September 2005

I know I have said it before but now after this year’s incredible Test series with Australia, people are beginning to believe me that Cricket is the greatest game that has ever been invented. Let’s face facts it is a game where all eleven players on either side can play some part in the game, sometimes it doesn’t happen but it can.

As well as that the role of administering the laws of the game is vitally important and sadly there are nowehere near enough people prepared to don the white coat and do this job. It always surprises me that people who have played cricket all their life are lost to the game from the moment they think that they can’t perform anymore. Its such a shame and I feel that if these people gave it a go they would come to enjoy it much more than they think.

Its alright watching from the sidelines, but nothing is quite like being in the middle. I feel really privileged that I have stood and umpired players of the calibre of Andy Bichel, Chris Cairns, Usman Afzaal, Ian Blackwell and Iain O’Brien all who have gone on to play for their countries in Test Cricket.

In addition to this I have also had the chance to officiate on grounds such as Queens Park , Chesterfield , The County Ground at Derby , Central Avenue , Worksop and the crowning glory the Test Ground at Trent Bridge , Nottingham .

I can tell you there is nothing quite like pitting your wits against others and making sure you get as much right as possible. Also when a game is tight and either side can win and the pressure is on it is an amazing feeling and one where you have to make sure you won’t buckle under the pressure you will be put under. When you get it completely right (notice I didn’t use the word if!) there is no better feeling and both sides will be generous with their praise for the way you have handled things.

Too many former players are being lost to the game and many are people who would do a good job if they donned the white coat. With this in mind an UMPIRES COURSE for beginners and those wishing to refresh their memory will be starting at the New Inn at Winsick on ten Monday’s commencing on Monday 3 rd October at 7.30 p.m.

Why not come along and see what it is all about, and I guarantee that you will quickly become very interested and want more. In addition this course leads to the GL6 or GL5 examination if you want to take it. Come along and join the rest in the greatest pastime available to anyone and the greatest reward of all is knowing you have done a good job.

For further enquires and further information please ring either Gerry Graney on 01623 642138 or John Heaman on 01246 221621. All it needs is that little push to get started and once you are there you will thoroughly enjoy it.

As well as this if you fancy the idea of scoring for a club that project is covered also. I can assure you that there are clubs out there who are searching high and low for a competent scorer and if cricket is something you want to be involved in then this is definitely a ‘must’ for you.

Although this job is not the most difficult in the world it all depends on how good you want to be at it. A SCORERS COURSE will be starting shortly at Central Avenue , Worksop under the instruction of Mike Snook with the first session taking place on Tuesday 11 th October. Further information can be gleaned form Peter McKenzie on 01909 733094, give him a call he is waiting to hear from you.

One final thought please don’t think that these posts are only for the male gender. Females are also invited to attend both courses and will be made most welcome.