Applications for the U4E programme are now open and will close on March 5th. The programme is aimed at the following umpires:
- Umpires nominated for the UDP but not selected,
- Promising umpires from your country
- Continuing professional development for appropriate UDP graduates
Bulgarian Hockey Federation supported Hristiyan Vasilev’s application to U4E in 2014, as he was keen to learn and improve his umpiring performance. Hristiyan took some time to let us know his thoughts on the programme and his progress through his first year.
U4E Profile: Hristiyan Vasilev (BUL)
My first introduction to the programme was a webinar, which was very inspiring and informative. Laurine Delforge (BEL), a UDP umpire, spoke about her experiences umpiring at the World Cup in the Hague. She spoke about dealing with pressure, taking chances and dealing with the unexpected. We had two more webinars, conducted by Henrik Ehlers and Elena Eskina.
The main event of the U4E calendar is the practical weekend in Breda, The Netherlands, where we get to umpire a tournament for the weekend, while supervised by our mentors. Not only was the level of hockey truly excellent, but the whole experience was a fun way to meet new people and share experiences. Each U4E umpire was assigned a mentor, who observed us and provided us with feedback throughout the tournament.
The Umpires 4 Europe programme is teaching us not only to become better umpires by organising activities, but also by encouraging us to share best practices and help others. Whether from a big hockey nation or a small one, we all learn from one another. I look forward to the next year of the programme!
The cost of the programme is 250euro per year. If you would like to apply and join the U4E for 2015, get in touch with your National Association to find out how. For any more information, email the EHF Office (info@eurohockey.org)
Source: EHF and Hristiyan Vasilev
Photograph: Hristiyan umpiring at the Bulgarian Indoor Club Championships 2015