From athlete to official: Supporting athletes during recovery

When injury ruled out competition for Amber Valley and Erewash Athletic Club (AVEAC) athlete Alice, she was determined to remain connected to the sport she loves. What began as a way to stay involved during recovery has quickly developed into a passion for officiating, with Alice recently achieving her Level 2 qualifications as both a Starter and Starter's Assistant.

Having competed in athletics since her early teens, primarily as a javelin thrower at Ipswich Harriers, Alice returned to the sport in 2021 after a ten-year break when she joined AVEAC and began competing in combined events. Alongside competing, she is also an assistant coach at the club.

Following surgery at the end of February, Alice was unable to compete during the 2025 season. Looking for ways to continue supporting athletics and her club, she volunteered to coordinate AVEAC's officiating programme and began undertaking virtual officiating training just one week after her operation.

Five months later, she has already gained experience as both a track judge and field official, while discovering a particular enthusiasm for the starts team. Reflecting on her journey into officiating, Alice said:

"Following surgery at the end of February, I was unable to compete this season. I wanted to stay involved in athletics and support my club during my recovery, so I coordinated AVEAC's officiating programme and started training in several officiating disciplines. I've now officiated as both a track judge and field official, but I've found a particular passion for starting and working as a Starter's Assistant."

Alice credits much of her development to the support of experienced officials across the Midlands, who helped her gain valuable experience at a variety of competitions.

"John Hallatt from Notts AAA and Mike Heffernan, Derbyshire County Officials Secretary, have been incredibly supportive, providing opportunities to assist and start at league matches, schools' meetings, open events and the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire County Championships. Sue Chillingworth and Hilary Burton have also played a huge role in helping me develop as a Starter's Assistant while managing my recovery. I've been fortunate to work alongside many talented officials, including those with international experience, whose knowledge and encouragement have been hugely inspiring."

While the technical aspects of officiating have appealed to her, it is the people involved that have left the biggest impression. Alice has already collected some memorable moments from her first season.

"My favourite thing about officiating is the people. The camaraderie between officials, regardless of discipline, is unmatched. Even on long days spent walking up and down the track with starting equipment, there's never a dull moment and I always leave having thoroughly enjoyed myself."

"One of my favourite memories was at the start of the season when my whistling was so bad that fellow starters had to whistle for me while I merely pretended! Thankfully, after plenty of practice, I can now whistle without any issues, much to the frustration of some AVEAC parents and coaches."

For Alice, officiating has strengthened her connection with a sport that has been an important part of her life for many years. She is also keen to encourage others to consider becoming officials and dispel some of the misconceptions that can put people off taking the first step.

"The track has always been my happy place, but even more so since I started officiating. I enjoy learning and applying the rules, and I love giving back to the sport by helping ensure fair competition for the next generation of athletes. Having benefited from the support of officials for years, it's rewarding to now play a part in creating a positive experience for others."

"A common misconception is that officiating is intimidating and that you need to know everything from day one. In reality, the training gives you a solid foundation and you learn most by doing. As a new official, you're never on your own. Experienced officials are always on hand to answer questions, offer advice and help you develop."

Encouraging athletes, parents and supporters to get involved, she added:

"I'd absolutely recommend officiating to anyone considering it. I've loved every meeting I've attended so far. The entry requirements are straightforward and the training is accessible. If you already spend your summers at the track supporting family or friends, why not get involved? You'll be helping the sport thrive, and you might even discover that you love officiating too."

Alice's story demonstrates how officiating can offer a rewarding way to stay connected to athletics, develop new skills and support the sport at every level, whether you're taking a break from competition or looking for a new challenge alongside it.