Celebrating Umpire Appreciation Week: Spotlight on Allie Mikelson
By Laurie Temple, NFHCA Digital Communications Specialist
Manahawkin, NJ - As we celebrate NFHCA’s Umpire Appreciation Week, we shine a light on dedicated officials who enhance the game of field hockey. Meet Allie Mikelson, an accomplished umpire whose journey through the sport reflects both passion and commitment.
Mikelson hails from Emmaus, Pennsylvania, where her field hockey journey began at Emmaus High School, graduating in 2012. She continued her athletic pursuits at the University of Delaware, earning her degree in 2016. After transitioning from player to official, Allie began umpiring with USA Field Hockey in 2014, driven by a desire to stay connected to the game she loved.
“I found it fun and exciting to be part of the game in a different capacity,” Mikelson recalls. What started as picking up club games for fun evolved into a fulfilling career, allowing her to officiate in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware across various age levels, including U-16, U-19, and NCAA Division I, II, and III competitions.
For Mikelson, umpiring is more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to give back to a sport that has given her so much. “Umpiring is a unique challenge that pushes you physically, mentally, and emotionally,” she explains. “It’s truly exciting and rewarding to see all those aspects come together.”
Mikelson emphasizes the importance of embracing every opportunity. “Every game, regardless of level, is a chance to learn something new.” This mindset has fueled her passion and dedication, allowing her to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the game, including the significant change brought by the introduction of video referrals.
Like many in the field, she faces challenges, particularly in maintaining trust and confidence in her abilities. “This is something I’m always working on,” Mikelson admits. “Having a strong support system is key for me.” Despite the hurdles, the rewards keep her motivated. The sense of community within the umpiring family is one of the highlights of her career, leading to countless friendships that she treasures.
Her journey has been marked by unforgettable experiences. Among her most memorable moments are receiving a call from Steve Horgan, former NCAA national assignor, about her appointment to her first international tournament and officiating the NCAA Final Four semifinal game in 2023. “These milestones are a testament to the hard work I’ve put into this career,” Mikelson says with pride.
As we honor officials like Mikelson during Umpire Appreciation Week, let us recognize their vital role in fostering the spirit of field hockey and encouraging the next generation of umpires. Her journey is an inspiring reminder of the passion, dedication, and camaraderie that define the officiating community.
Thank you, Allie, for your commitment to the game!
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The National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) is a nonprofit organization serving field hockey coaches and supporters of the game from across the United States. The mission of the organization is to champion, strengthen, and celebrate field hockey coaches and the game. The NFHCA strives to cultivate and recognize the professional contributions of its membership and to foster and promote the growth of the sport. The NFHCA is responsible for providing a recognizable presence and voice in regard to legislation affecting the sport as well as interscholastic and intercollegiate programs.