Erin De Sousa

Residence: Burnaby, BC

How did you first get into umpiring?

I got in to umpiring because I loved everything about the game and wanted to support my local club.

Other field hockey background:

I have coached field hockey for 12 years across all ages, mostly at the grassroots level, but also dabbling in some high performance. My favourite player that I have coaches is my Mom! I grew up playing field hockey in Burnaby; went on to play with the varsity team at UBC; and now play Premier division in the VWFHA for the Meralomas club.

I am also the President & Founder of the Burnaby Bears Field Hockey Club where I share my playing, coaching & umpiring experience with my community.

Favourite umpiring memory:

Too many to count, but there is nothing like calling a beautiful goal by holding your whistle on an advantage when athletes are playing all out to get the ball in the net!

Advice for aspiring umpires?

The most important thing is making sure that you care about the game you are appointed to as much as the players, coaches and fans. Your excitement, engagement and integrity will build trust and rapport with those you share the field with. Thank you to all of the mentors and colleagues I have worked with in my umpiring career thus far. Your support, knowledge, kindness, and love for the game are beyond what anyone knows.

Notable umpiring appointments:

2017 Central American & Caribbean Games Qualifier (Kingston, Jamaica)

2018 Central American & Caribbean Games (Barranquilla, Colombia)