At just 16 years and 10 months old, Amy Gear is making waves in the cricket world as a talented young umpire. Her journey to becoming a Level 3 umpire is nothing short of extraordinary, and she recently had her professional debut at Wanderers Stadium on September 30, 2023.
Amy’s love for umpiring began when she was just 13 years old, and she started officiating President B Club games. By the time she turned 14, she was already confident and competent enough to take charge of President A matches. Astonishingly, she made her mark in Premier B men’s club cricket soon after. Amy’s cricketing journey started even earlier, with her playing the sport from a very young age and even captaining games for the Athena’s Team at the prestigious Wanderers Club.
Her debut as a professional umpire on September 30, 2023, was a momentous occasion. She officiated a women’s provincial 50-over match between Dp World Lions and Recon Tactical Freestate, and she did so with poise and confidence beyond her years. Her remarkable performance didn’t go unnoticed, and her journey is far from over.
Amy’s father, Simon Gear, himself an experienced umpire, attests to the dedication and hard work his daughter has put into her craft. On many Sundays, they both find themselves officiating games, sharing their experiences, and engaging in post-match debriefs. Simon is quick to highlight Amy’s commitment to her role, emphasizing how she meticulously reads the playing conditions, stays updated with the rules, and listens thoughtfully to all of the feedback she gets from the panel umpires that she stands with.
When asked about her experience after the game, Amy couldn’t contain her excitement. She said, “It’s probably the most memorable game I’ve done so far.” Her enthusiasm is infectious, and her passion for the sport shines through. Amy can’t wait to stand in more professional women’s cricket games, and her fervor for umpiring is bound to inspire others to follow in her footsteps.
What excites Amy’s dad is her financial independence. She earns her own pocket money through umpiring, which is a remarkable achievement at her age. Her dedication to the sport has also led to her appointment at CSA’s Under-19 women’s week in Cape Town later this year, a significant opportunity for her to further develop her skills and gain valuable experience.
One unique challenge Amy faces is the transition from being a friend and teammate to an authority figure on the field. Umpiring requires her to make impartial decisions, even when officiating games involving friends or former teammates. It’s a testament to her professionalism and her unwavering commitment to the sport.
As Amy Gear continues to make her mark in the world of cricket umpiring, cricket enthusiasts and fans of the sport have every reason to be excited. Her extraordinary journey, dedication, and natural talent as an umpire are sure to lead to a bright and promising future. Keep an eye out for Amy Gear – she’s a rising star who is making her presence felt on the cricket field!
