Northern Athletics Officials Conference
On Sunday 6 October, 68 Officials took part in the annual Northern Athletics Officiating Conference, supported by England Athletics.
The one-day conference brought together Officials of all levels and disciplines from across the North; to take part in workshops, listen to inspiring speakers and network with peers, as part of ongoing CPD and to enhance knowledge and understanding of the multi-skilled roles of Officials.
There were a range of workshops delivered on the day, including:
- Electronic Data Measurement (EDM) – the group was introduced to a variety of EDM’s: Geodimeter 610Pro, Leica TCRA1103 (self-seeking) and the TopCon OS103. A brief introduction and demonstrations were followed by individuals practising on the various instruments. Help and guidance was given by other more experienced Officials.
- Seeding – the group was given in-depth knowledge and instruction on how to seed races.
- Becoming a Level 1 Starter and Call Room – the group learnt about the duties and procedures of a Call Room and stewards. Checking athletes kit, spikes, advertising, leg numbers if needed and to ensure they are properly dressed and arrive at the competition area on time, checking their relevant number, heats for track events and escorting them to the site.
In addition to this, the County Officials Secretaries and Tutors came together for a session facilitated by Steve Gaines from Northern Athletics, Moira Gallagher, Chair of the Technical Advisory Group and Nicola English from England Athletics, to discuss how we can work together to encourage and support more people to get involved in officiating and ensure a positive experience for all. Steve, Moira and Nicola form part of a project group that has been set up to recruit, support and develop Officials at all levels to enable good quality competition to continue to thrive, click this link to read more about this partnership.
Nicola English, England Athletics’ Officials Development Officer, said:
‘The conference was well attended, and we received great comments and feedback about the sessions delivered, networking opportunities and inclusion with planning to recruit, develop and support Officials. One of our key strategic priorities is to expand the capacity of our sport by supporting and developing our volunteers and workforce, and there are lots of great ideas on how we go about this that come from our conferences and various training and networking sessions.’
Take part in our Officials Taster Days
England Athletics Officials Taster Sessions are back, and applications are now open for events coming up in the New Year. If you’re interested in becoming an Official, then our taster days are the perfect opportunity for you to try your hand at various officiating roles and get stuck in at very core of our sport. No previous experience or qualifications are necessary, just an eagerness to learn and to volunteer your time and energy – click this link to find out more and secure your spot.
More about the Northern Athletics Officials Association
The Northern Athletics Officials Association is about friendship, giving a helping hand and trying to improve life for technical officials of all disciplines and levels. In addition to the opportunity of attending the annual AGM and conference they provide information, support and guidance to Technical Officials and encourage a high standard of officiating, assistance in the training of Officials, as well as a free UKA rule book and IAAF rule book at a discounted price. If you would like to become a member, visit northernathletics.org.uk.
You might also like to read…
Becoming an Official – Jane’s journey
Click this link to find out more about our officiating journey