Umpire levels
The following shows the level, the umpiring system (2 man or 3 man) used at each level and the highest level of match that each level of umpire can officiate.
Level Name | No. of umpires / System | Highest level of game |
---|---|---|
Level 1 | N/A | N/A |
Level 2 (Club) | 2 umpires | Club / League fixtures |
Level 3 (Regional) | 3 umpires | Junior Internationals, Senior B Internationals |
Level 4 (National) | 3 umpires | Full Senior Internationals and U19 World Championships |
International | 3 umpires | Senior World Cups |
Umpire development pathway and how to get there
Level 1
Note that this is not really a level as such, more a stepping stone to Level 2 – Club Umpire
This is step 1 en route to becoming a lacrosse umpire. You will need to read the rules then sit and pass the online theory test. This open book test prepares you for attending the Level 2 Umpire course, as it is essential that you have a basic knowledge of the rules before you attend the course. On passing your online theory test you are still not qualified to umpire competitive LS games e.g. League games, Macrobert tournament.
Having passed the Level 1 Online Theory Test you have shown that you have knowledge of the rules so the next step is to attend the Level 2 course where you will learn to apply the rules.
Level 2 – Club Umpire
A Level 2 Umpiring Course is run each year, usually around October. At the course you will be shown how to apply the rules, how to recognise fouls and learn about the mechanics of umpiring and how to manage a game. It is interactive and fun and will give you the opportunity to de-mystify the rules into something you can visualise and put into practice (as a player or umpire). The course will be run indoors and outdoors – we will not be playing games, so if you are not a lacrosse player please don’t worry, we just use lacrosse sticks to practise some set pieces e.g. the draw, throw and to demonstrate stick checks, fouls etc.
The next stage is to practise at every opportunity and then get tested at a game / testing event. You need to complete and send the Umpire Practical Test Request Form
Testing of new Level 2 umpires will only take place at friendly events e.g. not at league matches. Clubs must organise their own friendly matches as testing events, and provide 2 weeks (minimum) notice to the testers. Some LS testing dates will also be made available to those who have attended the L2 course – these are generally school fixtures, junior and senior development weekends.
When you pass your practical test, you can now umpire competitive club fixtures. As you become more experienced you will be encouraged to try the 3 man umpire system, as this is even more fun than the 2 man umpire system.
Note: Level 2 umpires who are renewing their umpiring qualification can ask a tester to renew them at any club fixture (league match, tournament or friendly).
Level 3 – Regional Umpire
This is based on the 3 man umpire system and requires knowledge of the advantage flag. Courses are run as and when required.
The test will consist of a practical test. You will be tested during two games involving Representative teams e.g. Junior Scotland.
If you think that someone in your club needs a wee nudge to encourage them to do their Level 3 award, please let us know so that we can start to work with them to get to this next level.
Level 4 – National Umpire
Once you are comfortable umpiring at Junior International level, the next step is to umpire at Senior Internationals or at future U19 World Championships. The test will consist of a practical test. You will be tested during two games involving Representative teams e.g. Senior Scotland.
International – World Lacrosse Umpire
This is a World Lacrosse (formerly known as Federation of International Lacrosse / FIL) level – please consult the World Lacrosse website to see what is required. This must be done formally via Lacrosse Scotland, so if you are interested, please let the R&U Working Group know so that we can help you to prepare.
Umpire Fees and Payments
Test Fee
To sit your practical test (Levels 2 to 4) you are required to pay a fee of £20 for individual Lacrosse Scotland members, £25 for non-members. The first re-sit is free, after which there is a flat re-sit fee of £10 for individual Lacrosse Scotland members, £15 for non-members. The fee for the I test is set by World Lacrosse.
Match Payment
Once you have passed your test (Levels 2 to 4) you will receive payment for umpiring. The match fees set by Lacrosse Scotland are;
Levels 2 to 4: £20 for umpiring a club / non-representative game
This rate reflects the level of game being officiated, rather than the official’s qualification. If clubs wish to pay their home official more than the Lacrosse Scotland standard rate, then they are, of course, welcome to do so.
The club and the official should agree beforehand whether travel expenses will be paid so that there are no misunderstandings.
For tournaments, the payment is normally 2 x the match fee, for officiating the full tournament.