Anupama Puchimanda Mundanda, 33, is the first woman referee from India to officiate in 88 international hockey matches and three Commonwealth games. She was awarded the Best Umpire (Women) India by Sardar Gyan Singh Memorial Hockey Society in 2007. She was selected by the Federation International Hockey as one of the youngest umpires among ten men and women in the world. She is in the city to officiate at the fourth National Junior Hockey Championship-2014. She spoke to TOI about her success in a male-dominated field and her goals. Excerpts.
What motivated you to get into hockey?
Hockey is popular in Kodagu and enjoys good support. My father and mother played hockey. When I was nine years old, I started my sports career as an amateur athlete in Kudige. At 13, I joined the Sports Authority of India, Madikeri, where I got into hockey. I represented the state in sub-junior and senior national championships several times.
What made you choose umpiring?
Since my childhood I wanted to do something unique. Umpiring is a field where we have bright opportunities. In 2001 I took the exam. I first officiated as an umpire at Cheppudira Family tournament, Kodagu. Since then I have never looked back.
What are the qualities that umpiring demands?
A referee needs a lot of concentration, has to maintain calmness. We need to study team strategy. It is the complete study of the game. When we manage the game well, everything will fall into place.
How was the journey?
I am blessed to have the support of my husband Mandanna Mundanda and parents and relatives.
Is it difficult for woman to achieve success in the male-dominated umpiring field?
I don’t want to comment on it. Personally, I went step by step with the support of my well-wishers, friends and seniors.
How is the performance of Indian hockey players?
The national hockey team and the state hockey team are performing well. The Hockey India league has been instrumental in promoting the game among the youth.
What is your next goal?
My aim is to be an Olympics umpire. But my immediate goal is to officiate at my 100th international umpiring which will be a landmark in world hockey umpiring. It will be a tribute to my father, who passed away recently.
Your advice to young players, aspiring umpires?
When we start doing anything from our heart, success automatically follows.
How do you feel umpiring at the ongoing National Junior Hockey Championship in Mysore?
I am very happy to be umpiring near my hometown. This is the first tournament I am officiating in Karnataka.
source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> City> Mysore / TNN / March 12th, 2014
