They are the people who keep the game flowing; the men and women without whom there would be total chaos on the pitch. If they do a good job they are unobtrusive; if they make a mistake then all eyes are on them. Umpiring hockey at any level can be stressful, at an event that attracts a global audience such as the Rabobank Hockey World Cup, such pressure is at its most intense. We spoke to two umpires who are at the very top of their game, John Wright from South Africa and Australia's Lisa Roach.

Thick skinned
For John, umpiring began at an early age. He first picked up the whistle while he was still at school, he then continued to umpire at U18, U21 and senior level, before becoming an international umpire. Lisa, who is one of just four Australian female umpires to have reached the landmark 100 internationals, worked her way through the Australian regional umpiring system and is now respected on the global stage by colleagues and players alike for her "no-nonsense, clear and concise communication and strong presentation."

Both umpires agree on the main qualities needed to become a top umpire. An in-depth knowledge of the rules, a high level of fitness, mental strength, consistency and a good understanding for what the game and teams are trying to achieve. Smiling wryly, John adds, "thick skinned!" to the list. Lisa also points to the importance of developing a good relationship with the players. "I always try to understand what the players are trying to do on the field and work with my colleague to get best from the game and myself. Most would call me a player's umpire; someone who is empathetic towards players."
 
Changes to the rules
They have been at the top of their game at a time when numerous changes to the rules and the way the game operates have been implemented. This can have an impact on umpires as much as it does players. As John points out, the physical demand on an umpire's fitness has been made greater by the increasingly non-stop nature of the game. "The first major change was the removal of the off-side rule. That made the game quicker and the self pass has added another element of continuity and flow to the game. The penalty shootout is also an interesting development." Lisa and John also view the introduction of the video umpire as a much needed and welcomed addition to the game.
 
Spectacle
For John, being an umpire is all about making the game a great spectacle. He says: "I have a reasonable amount of experience and I have developed a good understanding of what teams are trying to achieve. It may sound odd, but we are all working together to take the game to the spectators and to make it the best experience for everyone, whether they are spectators, players or coaches."

Highs and lows
Both umpires have experienced highs and lows in the their international careers. Lisa, who is one of the most experienced female umpires in the world, says: "I enjoy coaching fast, free flowing teams that really test you, but in terms of my career highs to date, hands down it is two special highlights. Being appointed to and umpiring both the last World Cup Final in Argentina and the Gold Medal match at the London Olympics. I can't describe the pride and honour it was to appointed to both of those." For John, the World Cup finals in Moenchengladbach and Delhi, and the Olympic final in Athens rank among his favourite events.

And when it comes to moments the umpires would most like to forget Lisa's worst moment was a ungraceful landing on her backside during the World League Finals in Tucaman, while John is quick to hold up his hands and admit his moment horribilus came during the the London Olympics when Spain met Great Britain in the quarter finals. A series of controversial decisions during the match meant he was surrounded by angry Spanish players when the whistle went.

Advice
For players who think a move into umpiring might be for them, John had this advice: "If you want something easy then you shouldn't choose umpiring. If you want to challenge yourself and make a valuable contribution to the game then umpiring will give you much satisfaction." Lisa says: "Enjoy it and show it on the pitch if you can. Be consistent and respectful. And listen to your umpire coaches. They can be your greatest support and can keep you motivated to keep achieving your goals. There can be an exciting pathway and umpiring career if you are prepared to take the journey. Always carry yourself with pride and honour. It is a privilege to be out on the field controlling games as an umpire with great players."