Carolyn Devereux: officiating is more than just the events

We spoke to Level 3 Track official from Avon; Carolyn Devereux to find out what she enjoys about officiating. As well as her last-minute call up for the World Indoors and her advice to someone thinking about joining the officiating community.

Carolyn told us that over the years, she has officiated at a wide range of different competitions – mostly local county competitions where she enjoyed meeting the same people and getting to know them really well.

"Officiating is about more than just the events; it's about the community and friendships that develop over time."

"Being an official has helped me make new friends and be able to create positive experiences for the athletes, coaches, parents and my fellow officials. This really is such a rewarding part of the role."

One of her most thrilling experiences as an official was a last-minute call-up for the World Indoors as a call room steward. She says the first athlete to sit down by her to be checked was Mondo Duplantis – "My day couldn’t get any better!"

Advice to someone thinking about joining the officiating community

"My advice would be, if you are thinking of becoming an official but have any reservations about how much time you have to put in – don’t worry. Any help at any competition is welcome."

"Even if you're unsure, you can come along and shadow for a day – or even just a few hours - at a local competition. Then you can get a feel for the role without making any significant initial commitment."

"I think many people are hesitant to help out because they have concerns about time commitments or think the role will be complicated but becoming qualified is much easier that you think."

On her ambitions to progress within officiating, Carolyn told us,

"I would love to progress to Level 4 in the fullness of time and be able to develop and enhance my knowledge and skills, whilst also helping create positive experiences and memories for me and others along the way."

Sum up officiating in 3 words?

"Fun | Rewarding | Engaging"

If you have been inspired by Carolyn and want to give officiating a go, click the link below to browse our courses.