2022 Hockey NZ Officials of the Year
COMMUNITY UMPIRE OF THE YEAR
Hockey New Zealand has honoured Mike Ward as the 2022 Community Umpire of the Year. Ward's commitment to nurturing young umpires in Kapiti has been applauded widely, demonstrating the impact one individual can make through their dedication.Ward's involvement spans several years, during which he has devoted considerable time and effort to creating a supportive pathway for junior umpires. His winning formula combines patience and a friendly approach, qualities that have inspired many newcomers to pick up the whistle and start umpiring.
Emphasising fun in the learning environment, Ward frequently shares his personal passion for umpiring, helping to foster an enduring love for the sport. The result of his approach is clear: a new generation of umpires, now hooked on the role, who see Ward as their mentor.
Ward did not limit his contribution to mentorship alone. In 2022, he increasingly took up the whistle himself, frequently umpiring not just at Kapiti, but also at the National Hockey Stadium (NHS) on Friday nights for secondary hockey matches. This award serves as recognition of his selfless commitment and the impact he has made on the sport he cherishes so deeply.
TECHNICAL OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR
Jackie Tomlinson, known for her eye for detail and her ability to adapt to rapidly changing situations, has been named as the 2022 Technical Official of the Year by Hockey New Zealand. This accolade recognises her incredible work, both locally and internationally.
Tomlinson was placed firmly in the spotlight in 2022 when she was appointed as the Technical Official for the final at the FIH Women’s World Cup. Her knack for quick thinking and adaptability proved invaluable on the global stage. Tomlinson also served as a Technical Official in the FIH Pro League Panel in 2022. Her engagement with the panel underscored her commitment to the sport, demonstrating her determination to ensure the smooth running of the professional games and maintaining the highest standard of play.
In addition to her international commitments, Tomlinson was also tasked with an important national responsibility. She was appointed as the Tournament Director for the National Hockey Championship held in Dunedin. Her handling of the role only further solidified her reputation as a reliable and effective leader.
MOST PROMISING MALE UMPIRE
In an impressive display of talent, Caleb Hansen has been named Hockey New Zealand's Most Promising Male Umpire of the Year for 2022. Hansen's exceptional season saw him appointed to umpire the final of both the Vantage Under 18 Men's Tournament and the Rankin Cup in the same year, underscoring his remarkable capabilities on the field.
Hansen's consistency and maturity in his approach to umpiring have set him apart as an exceptionally promising talent in the field. His exceptional performance makes him a very worthy winner of this prestigious accolade.
MOST PROMISING FEMALE UMPIRE
In a testament to her rapid rise and development, Kaitlyn Pennell has been named the Most Promising Female Umpire of 2022 by Hockey NZ. Pennell's growth in her umpiring craft has been nothing short of extraordinary, with her on-field performances consistently surpassing expectations.
In 2022, Pennell was appointed to umpire the North vs South Under 21 series and our National Hockey Championships in Dunedin, where she upheld high and consistent umpiring standards. Congratulations to Kaitlyn, a well-deserving recipient of this honour, and we look forward to her continued progress.
FEMALE UMPIRE OF THE YEAR
Amber Church's stellar performances throughout 2022 have earned her the esteemed title of Female Umpire of the Year. Church was appointed to umpire the women's finals of not only the 2022 Commonwealth Games and 2022 FIH Women's World Cup, but also our very own National Hockey Championship, demonstrating her exceptional skill and expertise.
In a fitting finale to a phenomenal year, Church was also named the FIH Female Umpire of the Year in 2022. Her unrivalled achievements set a high bar for future contenders and demonstrate the level of dedication required to excel in this challenging role.
MALE UMPIRE OF THE YEAR
David Tomlinson, a respected name in the world of hockey officiating, has been awarded the title of Male Umpire of the Year for 2022. Tomlinson is well-known for his thoughtful approach to the game and his diligent work in developing modern hockey umpiring skill sets.
In 2022, Tomlinson was again part of the FIH Pro League Umpire Panel and was also appointed to umpire the men's final at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. Beyond his role as an umpire, Tomlinson also contributes significantly as a valued member of the HNZ National Coach Developer and Trainer groups. His accomplishments in 2022 further solidify his standing as one of the sport's top officials.