Road to Comm Games - Michael Johnson ITO

Your Story

How did you first get involved in bowls, and then in umpiring?
I’ve been bowling for 21 years now. I started at college when I was 14 and was hooked instantly — I loved both the game and the competitive side of college bowls.

I became an umpire that same year after my Poppa, Keith Johnson, told me you can’t play a sport properly if you don’t understand the laws. That stuck with me, and I’ve been involved in umpiring ever since.

What drew you to officiating?
My Poppa was a top umpire and Chair of the Bowls NZ Umpires Committee at the time, and I really looked up to him. His knowledge of the laws and technical side of the game inspired me as a young player.

I spent a lot of time with him at events and at the club, and that exposure — along with support from some excellent mentors — made umpiring a natural path that’s kept me engaged ever since.

Umpiring Journey

What have been some highlights of your umpiring journey so far?
I’ve been fortunate to experience a wide range of opportunities over the past 21 years. Some real highlights include travelling to Samoa as Deputy Chief Technical Official for the Youth Commonwealth Games and South Pacific Games, and more recently leading the Asian Lawn Bowls Championships in India.

That experience in India was particularly special — not just officiating, but helping to train and inspire other umpires. I’ve also really valued opportunities to lead teams as Chief Technical Official at both national and international events.

I’ve been lucky to be involved in a number of major events. My first international was the Asia Pacific Championships in 2007, and since then I’ve officiated at World Championships, Commonwealth Games, World Champion of Champion Singles events, the IBD World Championship, and various regional games across Oceania and Asia.

Each event presents new challenges and learning opportunities, and I’ve really valued the diversity of those experiences.

Commonwealth Games

What was your reaction when you found out you’d been selected?
I was very happy and excited — it’s a big deal to be selected. I was also surprised and honoured to be appointed as a Deputy Chief Technical Official, which made the moment even more special.

What does this opportunity mean to you personally?
It means a lot. Umpiring is such a big part of my life, so to be involved in one of the major events of the year is incredibly rewarding.

Balancing this with work and a young family makes it even more meaningful — I feel very grateful for the opportunity and the support around me.

What does it mean to represent New Zealand in this role?
It’s a huge honour. I feel proud to represent New Zealand umpires on the worldstage.

At the same time, once we’re on the field, we become part of the international team and have a responsibility to be neutral and support the event as a whole.

The Umpiring Role

What do you enjoy most about being an umpire?
I really enjoy the teamwork aspect. Umpiring is about being part of a team and contributing to the smooth running of events.

I also like the dynamic nature of the role — you never quite know what challenges or decisions you’ll face. Ultimately, it’s about supporting players and administrators to ensure everything runs as it should.

What do you think makes a great umpire?
Technical knowledge is essential, but great umpires go beyond that. They work well in a team, support their peers, and are approachable, fair, and consistent.

They play a key role in bringing people together and ensuring events are delivered to a high standard.

Looking Ahead

What are you most looking forward to at the Commonwealth Games?
I’m looking forward to being part of a large international technical official team at such a significant event.

It’s also exciting to travel to the UK for the first time and be part of a Games that is evolving how future events will be delivered.

Quick Fire

What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I have a young family with my wife Kelsi and our three kids, and balancing umpiring with family life can be a real juggle — but I’m incredibly grateful for the support I have at home.

Outside of bowls, I’m passionate about education and have taken on a governance role at my child’s school, particularly in health and safety.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about becoming an umpire?
Do it, and do it now. Learning the laws and understanding the technical side of the game adds real value — both to your umpiring and your playing.

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