In just her second season at the elite domestic level, Emma Parker achieved a significant milestone by winning her first award in the Netball Super League (NSL).
After making her debut in 2023 and umpiring two fixtures, Parker consistently performed well throughout the 2024 season, officiating eight matches and serving as the reserve umpire on another eight occasions.
Speaking after picking up the accolade, Emma shared how her officiating journey started by chance in the grassroots game and has since led her to the world of the elite domestic level.
“My journey into umpiring began by my team / club needing an umpire at training – no-one really wanted to do it so I stepped up. The same thing kept happening at tournaments too so I took the whistle.
Emma’s abilities and potential as an umpire quickly became apparent and she found herself frequently taking on the role of umpire, which eventually led her to pursue formal qualifications.
Mentored by June Tenwick from Surrey, Emma progressed from her C Award to B, and finally to her A Award.
“My B Award assessors encouraged me to take my A and off I went. I joined the Premier League as an A Award umpire then the NPL and eventually found myself in the Super League. I was very fortunate to have an excellent mentor and I owe her a lot.
For Emma, umpiring is a passion.
“I love the excitement of the game and being involved in any capacity. Umpires play a crucial role in keeping the game safe and within the rules, and I enjoy that responsibility.”
Her dedication to fair play and her passion for the sport is evident every time she steps onto the court.
“Umpiring is good for the mind and the soul!”
Reflecting on her second season in the NSL, Emma described it as incredible.
“Being fully involved and running more games was a highlight. Despite the challenges of new rules, I embraced the season with enthusiasm.
“In my first season, I was more nervous, but this year I knew what to expect and could embrace it more fully. The nerves are still there, but I use them positively.
Emma draws inspiration from various sources within the netball community.
“On the court, Pamela Cookey was my favourite player. As an umpire, I look up to our international umpires from England and Wales,” she noted. These role models have shaped her aspirations and fuelled her drive to excel in her umpiring career.
Winning the NSL Umpire Assessor of the Year award is a testament to Parker’s hard work and dedication. “When I found out I had won, I was speechless and a little emotional. Being recognised in anything you do in your life is always appreciated.”
“Having my children beside me as I collected the award was absolutely priceless,” she reflected.
Taken during the Grand Final of the Netball Super League between Manchester Thunder and Loughborough Lightning at the Resorts World Arena, NEC, England on the 29th June 2024
Emma encourages anyone interested in umpiring to take the plunge.
“If you are considering getting into umpiring, do it! The Officiating Family is the best team to be in. There is so much more support out there now to help people in their journeys. Taking the first step can only come from you,” she advised.
Find out more about how you can begin your officiating journey here.
Congratulations to Emma on receiving the NSL Umpire Assessors’ Award this year!
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