Eight umpires from across the continent have been chosen to form Group 18 of the EuroHockey Institute Umpire Development Programme (UDP), kicking off their two-year journey in early 2026.
Doncaster Hockey Club’s own Maxwell Davidson will represent England in the group.
The UDP remains one of the organisation’s key initiatives for developing future top-level umpires in Europe. Over the next two years, participants will attend two in-person seminars annually and receive at least one guaranteed EuroHockey appointment per season.
The 2026 programme will start with a seminar in Barcelona in February, held alongside the Top Hockey Barcelona tournament, followed by a second gathering later in the year at the EHL KO16. Group 18 will be guided by experienced mentors Fred Denuemostier (BEL) and Martin Madden (SCO).

All at Doncaster Hockey Club are really proud of Max, who continues to work tirelessly for the Club developing a strong umpire team as well as coaching and playing first team hockey.
We look forward to supporting Max on his journey.

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