Umpire Programs
The Illawarra District Netball Association (IDNA) is the proud governing body for netball in the Illawarra region, committed to fostering participation, development, and excellence in the sport. With a rich history and strong community roots, IDNA supports a network of vibrant local clubs and provides structured competitions, development pathways, and inclusive programs for players, coaches, umpires, and volunteers of all ages and abilities.
From grassroots to representative levels, IDNA is dedicated to promoting the core values of respect, teamwork, sportsmanship, and fair play. The Association works collaboratively with member clubs to ensure a positive, safe, and inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive — whether stepping onto the court for the first time, chasing elite goals, or volunteering behind the scenes.
As a cornerstone of sport in the region, IDNA continues to inspire a love for netball and build a strong, connected netball community across the Illawarra.
JUMP
Junior Umpires Mentoring Program
Objective:
The Junior Umpire Mentoring Program (JUMP) is designed to support and progress unbadged junior-aged umpires toward achieving their National C Badge standard. The program focuses on building confident, consistent and capable umpires through structured mentoring, education and practical on-court experience.
​
JUMP operates within the 11A and 12A grades, providing umpires with exposure to a higher standard of play while still offering a supportive learning environment. Participants are assessed across key umpiring performance metrics including:
​
-
Rule knowledge and application
-
Positioning, vision and movement patterns
-
Whistle timing and decision-making consistency
-
Game management and advantage control
-
Communication with players, coaches and bench officials
-
Professionalism, confidence and composure under pressure
​
Umpires receive ongoing feedback, goal setting and performance reviews throughout the season, with development aligned to Netball NSW umpire frameworks and pathways. Progress is monitored to ensure readiness for badge assessment and transition into higher-level competitions.
​
Program Coordinators​
-
2026 JUMP Coordinator: To be confirmed, pending membership of the Umpires Sub-Committee
​
The JUMP program plays a vital role in strengthening the future of umpiring within Illawarra Netball, ensuring our young officials are supported, empowered and prepared for long-term success on and off the court.
Objective:
The Intermediate Umpire Program (IUP) is designed to progress unbadged senior-aged umpires and nationally badged junior umpires toward achieving the National C Badge standard. The program provides a structured and supportive development pathway through targeted mentoring, education and high-quality match exposure.
​
The IUP is delivered across the Intermediate and Cadet A1 grades, allowing umpires to officiate faster-paced, more tactically complex games while continuing to refine their skills in a guided environment. Umpire performance and progression are assessed against key development metrics, including:
​
-
Advanced rule interpretation and consistent application
-
Court positioning, angles and anticipation of play
-
Whistle control, timing and clarity
-
Advantage management and game flow
-
Effective communication with players, coaches and fellow officials
-
Match control, conflict management and professionalism
-
Physical fitness, movement efficiency and endurance
-
Decision-making accuracy under increased pressure
​
Umpires receive regular feedback, performance reviews and goal-setting opportunities, with individual development plans tailored to support readiness for Netball NSW badge assessments. The program mirrors Netball NSW umpire pathway structures, ensuring participants are well prepared for progression into higher-level competitions and representative appointments.
Program Coordinator​
-
2026 IUP Coordinator: To be confirmed, pending confirmation of Umpires Sub-Committee membership​
​
The IUP plays a critical role in developing confident, capable umpires who are equipped to officiate at a higher standard and contribute to the ongoing strength and integrity of netball in the Illawarra.
IUP
Intermediate Umpire Program
Objective:
​
The Senior Umpire Program (SUP) supports nationally badged umpires progressing from National C to National B accreditation, aligned with the Netball NSW Umpire Pathway. Delivered within Senior Premier League and A1 grade competitions, the program provides high-quality match exposure, mentoring and education to prepare umpires for advanced representative and state-level appointments.
Key Objectives & Development Metrics (aligned to Netball NSW competencies):
​
-
Game Management: Demonstrates control, consistency and confidence in high-intensity senior matches
-
Decision Making: Applies rules accurately and decisively under pressure, with strong advantage and sanction selection
-
Positioning & Vision: Maintains optimal court positioning to support clear sight lines and effective teamwork
-
Communication: Uses clear verbal and non-verbal communication to manage players, captains and benches
-
Teamwork: Works cohesively with co-umpires, officials and mentors, adapting to different umpiring partnerships
-
Fitness & Movement: Maintains the physical demands required for senior-level competition across full matches
-
Professionalism: Displays preparation, presentation, resilience and accountability consistent with National B expectations
-
Performance Review: Engages in ongoing feedback, self-reflection and targeted development planning
​
Through continued mentoring, learning and performance review, SUP equips umpires with the skills, confidence and experience required to progress within the Netball NSW pathway and officiate at higher levels of the game.
Program Coordinator​
-
2026 IUP Coordinator: To be confirmed, pending confirmation of Umpires Sub-Committee membership​
​​
SUP
Senior Umpire Program
