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Growing the next generation of officials in Humber

Every athletics competition relies on a dedicated team of officials working behind the scenes to ensure events are delivered safely, fairly and professionally. Recognising the need to create a sustainable future for the sport, clubs across the Humber region came together to address the issue through a structured mentoring and development programme designed to recruit, support and develop new officials.

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.
Katerina Sobey

Finding her place on the track: Katerina's officiating journey

Katerina Sobey came into athletics through her children training at North Devon Athletics Club. A club coach approached her at a local meeting and asked for some help. Because she had previously noticed that nearly all the timekeepers at events she attended were men, she happily volunteered to help the timekeeper team and try to reset the gender balance there. We found out more about her officiating journey.
Starter Hannah Partington and niece

Helping grass roots athletics through officiating

Hannah Partington is based in Falmouth in Cornwall and recently gained her Level 2 Starter / Starter's Assistant qualification. She explains how she began, how her officiating journey has progressed and what she's gained from it.
Two female officials looking at a clipboard

Top tips for officials to prepare for age group changes

From 1 April 2026, England Athletics will introduce the new competition age groups (U12, U14, U16, U18, U20), replacing the existing U13/U15/U17 model. These changes aim to improve long‑term athlete development, simplify progression, and align better with school years. Here are our top tips to help officials prepare and support their athletes smoothly through the transition.
Pat Green 2

Pat Green: 1931-2025

England Athletics is saddened to hear of the passing of Pat Green, former chair of North of England AA and life vice-president of the AAA of England, aged 93.

Coreen Beckford stepping down as OEMG Chair after a successful 18 months

Coreen Beckford has chaired the Officials Education Management Group for the past 18 months, during which time they have made significant progress in advancing officiating qualifications, overcoming challenges, and establishing a clear plan for the year ahead.
Officials in a briefing meeting

Celebrating the officials supporting our outdoor championships

As we look forward to an exciting summer of outdoor championships in 2025, we wanted to share our gratitude and appreciation to the dedicated officials who will be instrumental in making these events a success. We are delighted to share the list of officials who will be helping our athletes at our upcoming outdoor season.

The Officiating Family - John, Tom and Kate

With the outdoor track and field season in full swing we managed to catch up with an officiating family; father, son and daughter trio to find out how officiating became such a big part of their family.
Lydia Kelly officiating

Lydia Kelly: How officiating can boost self-belief

We caught up with North West Inspiring Official award winner Lydia Kelly to discuss her officiating journey and advice to others looking to get involved.