For the past 3 weeks my office turned blue – with a hint of gold!

Whilst at the XXXIII Olympic Games in Paris, I was an umpire for hockey and what a rich experience it was! From kitting out, to the opening ceremony, to a packed stadium full of fans, and visiting other Olympic sports such as the tennis at Roland Garros or the beach volleyball in the shadow the Eiffel Tower.

Hannah with the teams, during her Golden Whistle match.

I was also fortunate to celebrate my 100th international cap, being presented with my Golden Whistle. Only the 57th woman in the world to receive such an accolade. We average about 10 caps a year, so you get the commitment I’ve made.  And with less than a 100 women ever umpiring hockey at an Olympic Games since it was included, I’m part of a special group.

Yet I am an amateur in an increasingly professional sport. Where I balance (as best I can) family, a career and high performance sport. Each have contributed massively to shape who I am, and I know by embracing a growth mindset and continuously driving for self improvement, anything is possible.

These past few weeks have been a culmination of nearly two decades worth of effort, pursuing my purpose, my dream – with such intensity in these past 9 months that I feel I can call myself an athlete too.

The Olympic Games is many many things…

➡️ It’s a journey with a climatic destination.

➡️ To be faster, higher, stronger today than I was yesterday.

➡️ It’s oh so very very rare.

➡️ It has higher highs, and lower lows than any other experience.

➡️ But most of all, it is a result of teamwork.

Hannah umpiring at the Olympic Games, Paris 2024.

Teamwork makes the dream work

As my daughter often reminds me, teamwork makes the dream work. And she is right.

To succeed at anything in life, whether exams, or making the local sports team, to doing well at work or pursuing life long dreams – it is the community around you that help propel you forward. And we are often part of many, all at once.

⭐️ The incredibly talented team of hockey umpires on the pitch – who came together from around the globe and created a high performing environment through shared values.

⭐️ The team at the Energy Ombudsman who allow me to pursue my dreams and support my passion for personal growth.

⭐️ My support network from the hockey community and friends who know me well. The messages of support, pride and inspiration have been incredible and kept me going these many months.

⭐️ And critically, my team at home… who are present on every step of the unpredictable journey, cheering me on with immense pride and asking for little in return except a big hug at the end of the 3 weeks.

Hannah receiving her Golden Whistle, with the umpiring team.

All bubbles must burst

I am all about high performing teams – but they too require effort, time and the right attitude to build and sustain. To my teams, thank you from the bottom of my heart! We did it!

And now… to take some time. Allow the bubble to burst. To rest. And just be exactly where I need to be… right here.

Visit the Inspire Series if you want to hear more about nurturing a growth mindset, grit, high performing teams and finding your purpose. 

Images courtesy of Yan Huckendubler.