Gary Burgess

Current Award and Date Achieved

IUA (2009)

Year started in the Super League

2007

Career highlights

15 x Super League Final Umpire
3 x World Cup Final Umpire
2 x Commonwealth Games Final Umpire
8 x England Netball Umpire of the Year
2016 England Netball Hall of Fame Inductee
2020 England Netball Honorary Life Member
2024 250 NSL Match appearances
2025 150 International Matches

How and when did you get involved in umpiring?

While I was a University I attended a number of Officiating courses to bolster my CV as a PE Teacher. I was talent identified by my County (Bedfordshire) which has a pedigree of producing world class umpires.

What has been your favourite memory on or off court?

I have been involved in 3 World record matches, 2 for match attendance 18,000+ and I was one of the umpires for the longest international match on record. This was the final of the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi and was a double overtime thriller. It is often regarded as one of the best Netball matches of all time.

Do you have any pre-match rituals before a game?

I always set out my whistle bag and towel in a certain way and I also drink the same brand of sports drink. And stretching! Lots of stretching!!!

Who has had the biggest influence on your umpiring so far?

Most definitely Sheelagh Redpath. She has been my mentor for nearly 25 years and is someone that is never scared to point out where I could’ve done better. The support I have received from Super League and International Assessors over the years has also added different facets or tools to my umpiring tool box which I will always be grateful for.

What is the best part about being a Super League umpire?

I love being part of a team of fantastic individuals. I have made lifelong friendships as a result and this is something I am always thankful for. It’s also about having the privilege to work in high performance sport with all of our fantastically talented athletes.

What advice would you give to someone considering becoming an umpire?

Knowing the rules inside out prepares you for any eventuality. Treat them like a get out of jail free card, so when a player or coach asks if you're sure, you already know the answer is yes! The learning never stops.