Umpire Precious Smith On Making History
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Precious Smith has etched her name into the history books as the first woman to officiate a match in the 121-year-old Eastern Counties Cup.
Smith took on umpiring duties during Bailey’s Bay’s recent ten-run victory over Flatts Victoria at Lord’s in the first round of the competition.
“It was an honour to become the first women’s umpire [in the Eastern Counties Cup],” Smith told Bernews. “It was an exciting challenge to be part of such a high-profile game.”
The tightly contested match, she said, could have gone either way. “In terms of our decision-making, it was pretty much spot on. Many people commented on how well the game was officiated, which is always a plus.”
A former Bermuda women’s national team all-rounder, Smith has been a fixture in local cricket for several years. She previously captained the Devonshire Recreation Club women’s team and now regularly umpires across divisions.
“Most of my games this season have been Premier Division games, but I umpire in the First Division too,” she said. “I love cricket. When women’s cricket fell away on the island, I wanted to stay involved.”
Smith is one of three female officials in Bermudian cricket, alongside umpire Wendy Woodley and match referee Linnell Williams. While women’s cricket is currently rebuilding, she remains hopeful about the future.
“The game is developing from scratch again,” she said. “There’s no league currently running – hopefully, it will start next year or the year after. Hopefully, more women can get involved in cricket.”
Smith also sees umpiring as a path for broader engagement in the sport. “I hope I can inspire more women and men to become umpires because we have a shortage of umpires on the island.
“It’s challenging, but once you know the laws and conditions of play, I find the players are more respectful of your decisions.”
At just 29, Smith is already a pioneer, and she hopes her milestone is just the beginning.
“Hopefully, women will continue to get these types of opportunities and we can make history not only domestically but internationally.”
“Smith is one of three female officials in Bermudian cricket, alongside umpire Wendy Woodley..”
It’s a family affair! Wendy Woodley is her Mom! BIG CONGRATS to you Precious!!
The first female to play is also coming.