Inverell's Tristen White spent two weeks in Perth umpiring at an Australian Men's Masters Hockey between September 27 to October 12.
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The passionate, level one badge umpired 17 games from age groups of over 45 up to over 75. White was also selected to umpire two bronze medal games.
"After watching a couple of my games, I was selected to umpire one bronze medal game and reserve-umpire the second.
"The first five minutes I was most nervous but once you get into the game it's a lot easier to focus," he said.
White applied for the Perth opportunity online after umpiring at two state championships throughout the year. He said the Masters competition was completely different to anything locally run.
"It was an eye-opening experience to see how quickly the game goes. I think the whole competition helped my skills and knowledge of how to better my umpiring."
The two weeks were not without controversy though, with White handing out 17-18 cards for various behavioural incidents.
White received praise from players and coaches for his umpiring skills at the Masters competition.
The 21-year-old moved from Inverell to Lismore this year to start university studies in teaching. Prior to moving, White was the umpiring convener in Inverell.
"Originally I was just playing and at around 11 I got into umpiring in the junior competition and just went from there," he said.
Hoping to work through the different levels of badging until he reaches an Australian badge, White will have to umpire at an open state carnival to reach the next level.
As an hockey umpire, player and committee member at Lismore, White also mentors and coaches.
At a recent presentation, he was honoured with a leadership award for helping mentor junior umpires.
"I like passing on knowledge and helping young umpires understanding the rules of the game," he said.
Between studies, White finds time to umpire around three games a weekend and playing two.
"I do like coaching too. I think it really makes a difference that I play, umpire and coach," he said.