Not only has it developed an incredible pipeline of new student umpires, but it has also provided vital growth and support for our existing umpires.

Led by Dio Sports Manager Kiani Smith (a current NZ B-badged umpire, former National Squad Member, and Zone Coach/Assessor), the programme offers a seamless pathway. Students learn the official rules in Term 4 before putting their knowledge into practice during our Netball Trials in Term 1.

Strength in Numbers at Auckland Netball Centre (ANC)

The initiative has successfully trained 45 new umpires, who now officiate Tuesday Year 7 and 8 games, and Saturday Secondary School games.

Dio proudly boasts the largest cohort of student umpires at ANC. Our students regularly step up to support both ANC and other schools, further sharpening their skills.

This dedicated system of coaching and mentorship led to 10 students earning their Centre Badge in 2025.

2026 Milestone Achievements

The momentum has only accelerated this year, with several students achieving outstanding regional and national milestones:

• Zone Theory Success: Last month, Harriet (Year 10), Lucia (Year 11), and Charlotte (Class of 2025) all successfully sat and passed their Zone Theory Exam.

• National Pathway Progress: Piper (Year 12) passed her NZ Theory exam this month, bringing her one step closer to earning her NZ Badge. Piper is already a regular fixture umpiring at the Premier 2 Secondary School level and recently made her debut officiating the Senior A Club Grade.

• Multi-Talented Success: Piper’s stellar work earned her an invitation from ANC to umpire at the North Island U16 Championships. While she had to decline due to a schedule clash, she will instead be representing Dio’s Premier Lacrosse at the New Zealand Secondary Schools tournament that same weekend.

Giving Back to the Game

Netball is one of the largest sports in Auckland, and umpires are the backbone of the game. With a massive number of Dio teams playing across the Junior, Middle, and Senior Schools, this programme is vital for building our students’ confidence, leadership, and resilience on the sidelines. We love seeing our students give back and volunteer in the sport they love!