ONE of the territory's most respected hockey umpires has been awarded the game's highest order.
The International Hockey Federation (FIH) have informed the Hong Kong Hockey Association (HKHA) that Billy Dillon has been promoted to an international World Cup and Olympic umpire, only one of five Asian recipients of the honour.
Dillon, 43, had been persuaded by HKHA chairman Con Conway 15 years ago to pursue a career in umpiring after a fairly successful playing career in the territory.
''The fact that Billy had given up play when he had a few more years left in him to pursue an umpiring career and reach the very top is very pleasing.
''We have been informed that Billy has been given the highest award ever achieved in Hong Kong. It's a tremendous achievement as he is one of the very few awarded this recognition in Asia,'' said Conway.
''We showed again that Hong Kong has excellent sports administrators and officials.'' Dillon would be eligible to umpire in the World Cup in Sydney, the World Championships and the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta.
