The Spirit of Officiating: Officiating Appreciation Week

To celebrate Officiating Appreciation Week, we interviewed some USTA Certified Officials from around the Midwest! Robert Roberts from Northwestern Ohio and Debbie Hendricks from Central Indiana tell us why they love officiating.

Robert Roberts

When did you first become an official?

I became involved in officiating thirteen years ago at the request of Jerri Banks then Midwest Chair of Officials for Northwest Ohio.

What is your favorite part of officiating events in your section?

My favorite part of officiating in this section is the acknowledgment of players, spectators and my peers of my professionalism and their satisfaction with my job performance.

What is your most memorable moment in officiating?

My most memorable moment thus far as an official was when I saw the excitement on the face of a boys 12 winner when he won his first tournament.

What does being part of the officiating family mean to you?

Being an official has given me an opportunity to meet a variety of interesting people on and off the court. All have interesting life experiences. Interacting with them has been very beneficial. We have shared stories about officiating and life that have helped me grow as an official and personally.

How has officiating helped you grow as a person?

Thirteen years is not a long time officiating compared to some of the officials I have had the pleasure of working with. It seems like, however, I have been officiating much longer. I have accepted assignments at all levels and accepted all advice and guidance.

What advice do you have for a new official?

If your officiating career is just starting my advice is to work a lot, observe, listen and be patient. After a long day I am often tired and need to relax. Yoga does it for me.