The satisfaction of helping fellow officials

Christel Shaw is part of Brighton and Hove Athletics Club where she is currently their officials' secretary. She has been involved in athletics for approximately 40 years, first as an athlete at age 11, then following her children’s athletic journey which in turn led to being an official for the last seven years. Below, we detail Christel's officiating journey.

Christel was at a YDL match with her son, and someone asked her if she was able to help officiate on the field.

"I thought - why not? It will help the team and it certainly helped the day go so much quicker. That was the defining moment for my journey in to being an official."

After the competition, Christel looked into being qualified - as this meant she could earn more valuable points for her club - and made the decision to give back something to the sport that had meant so much to her as a youngster. Unfortunately, Christel says she didn’t get much support when she started out and this is why she now tries to encourage, mentor and assist anyone who wants to become an official. This is especially true of the County Officials' Secretary (COfSec) role.

"I was talking to an official who was the COfSec at the time and wanted to stand down, so I was happy to stand in and help them out so the job wasn’t too much for one person. I have to say that my list of jobs is not short though! If there is anything you need to know, need sorted or advise your COfSec would be your first port of call."

COfSec roles

• Help arrange and find officials for events like the County championships in May.
• Help officials get started on their officiating journeys, ensuring they are there to help and guide them with any questions they may have.
• Try to find officials mentors that will help them progress or just be there to advise.
• Look at long service awards and make sure that these have been presented.
• Assist / nudge with the renewal process of licensing, ensure the officials database is up to date.

"I love officiating, I love giving back to the sport, meeting different people and athletes, seeing and going to different places and making a difference. Without us officials these athletes wouldn’t have the opportunity to do something they enjoy, and that’s a great feeling knowing you are helping with that."

Best officiating memory?

Christel says her most memorable event so far is being asked to attend the Diamond League in London this year and she hopes to be able to do this again - alongside some larger events like the Commonwealth Games, World Championships and even the Olympics.

Officiating doesn't have to take over your life

"Do not be fooled into thinking the officiating will take over your life; you can do as little or as much as you chose. I think it is this misconception that some parents have when you ask them at a local meeting to help and maybe start on their own journey - that puts people off and honestly don’t let it stop you, the choice on how much you do is always yours."

How to get started

Christel's final piece of advice is not to put off starting. Someone at your local club, other officials or the COfSec for your area will all point you in the correct direction, how to start, what courses are available, how to progress, or any questions you have.

"Go on - it is so much fun and you meet so many new people."