Hampshire official Rob Jenkins is celebrating – from Vietnam – after he became the inaugural recipient of the Hockey Writers’ Club’s Volunteer of the Year award.
In 2021, Jenkins achieved 500 England Hockey League outdoor games over 19 years as an umpire and officiated five indoor finals nights for both the men’s and women’s games.
He has been a coach and assessor for National Programme Umpiring Association (NPUA) for at least 10 years, an Umpire Manager for NPUA indoor and outdoor, and a great supporter of the young umpire talent development programme.
In addition to his contributions at the regional and National level, he sits on the World Masters Committee for Officials and has been an Umpire Manager and performing umpire at that level. Prior to that, he was a great servant to Hampshire hockey, where he still holds close ties.
Rob was unable to attend the awards on Wednesday. The award, sponsored by Hockey World News, was received on behalf by Hannah and James Wilson, whose father Ken passed away last year and who award is in memory of. Ken was Hockey Writers’ Club secretary and was a passionate volunteer at countless hockey events in England.
Rob said: “I feel very humbled and honoured to have received this award. I simply love hockey since my father took me to a game in a pram (I was 6 months old, I should add) and played as soon as I could hold a stick. Poacher turned gamekeeper became my role 25 years ago, and I have loved being involved in the umpiring side through County, Regional, National, and now Masters hockey.”
Jade Bloomfield, of the Hockey Writers’ Club, said: “This well-deserved recognition is a testament to Rob’s tireless efforts and contributions to the sport of hockey.
“His unwavering commitment to the sport and his selfless contributions have significantly impacted the hockey community.”
