Occupation: Talent Acquisition Specialist
Current award and date achieved: IUA, April 2014
Year started umpiring Superleague: 2011
Career highlights:
World Youth Netball Final
Constellation Cup 2017
Quad Series 2016
Inaugural World Universities
Marion Smith
How and when did you get involved in umpiring?
When I was 14 and my mum was delivering a C Award Course.
What has been your favourite memory on or off court?
Celebrating every goal scored at the Marion Smith Championships like it was a gold medal winner!
Do you have any pre-match rituals before a game?
Listen to music and a set warm up. Focus on the game that is about to happen and get in the zone to ensure I am on it from the first whistle.
What are your aspirations for the future?
Continue to perform at an international level.
Who has had the biggest influence on your umpiring so far?
My colleagues and friends in the East Midlands. Knowing that there are people who look up to me is a huge responsibility and they influence how I carry myself throughout my netball life.
What is your favourite song to train/work-out too?
“It’s gonna be ok” by Cliff Richard
Do you have any embarrassing netball moments?
I fell over after doing a toss up at Yorkshire Jets.
What is the best part about being a Superleague umpire?
Working closely with the Officiating team.
Finally, what advice would you have for anyone who wants to Umpire in the Superleague in the future?
If you really want it then you have to be prepared to sacrifice some things… but it is worth it. Listen to the feedback you get and take every opportunity you are given.
Everything is done for a reason – even if that reason isn’t clear to you at the time.