Xiaoying Liu and Martin Madden: The Unsung Heroes of Olympic Hockey
The Olympics are a grand spectacle, showcasing the pinnacle of athletic achievement. Behind every stunning goal and breathtaking save lies the tireless work of hockey umpires, ensuring the smooth operation and fairness of the matches. This officiating team includes Technical Delegates, Technical Officials, Umpire Managers, Umpires, and Medical Officers, all of whom are volunteers.
The Journey to Becoming an Umpire
Xiaoying Liu from China and Martin Madden from Scotland are two esteemed umpires with decades of experience. Xiaoying played hockey for 12 years before becoming an umpire to stay connected to the sport. Martin started umpiring at 15, influenced by his father, an international hockey umpire.
Balancing Life and Officiating: The Second Family
Being an umpire requires balancing personal life with professional responsibilities. Xiaoying finds it challenging to leave her family for long periods but wants to set an example for her children. Martin values the camaraderie among umpires, describing it as a second family that supports each other through tough times and celebrates good ones.
The Olympic Experience
Umpiring at the Olympics is a dream come true but presents unique challenges. Xiaoying’s first Olympic experience in Tokyo was marked by strict COVID-19 protocols. She looks forward to Paris 2024 with optimism. Martin, who has umpired at multiple World Cups and Olympic Games, notes the massive scale of the Olympics. As he approaches his final Olympic tournament, he aims to leave on a high note.
Team Building and Preparation for Paris 2024
To ensure optimal performance at Paris 2024, 28 umpires and 4 umpire managers will gather in Cergy, northwest of Paris, for a pre-Games training camp from July 21-24. This camp will help them acclimate to the conditions and prepare for the matches.
The dedication and hard work of hockey umpires and officials are pivotal to the success of the Olympic Games. Their commitment to excellence and their roles as unsung heroes will undoubtedly contribute to another memorable Olympic Games.
