What's the Call: Meet USTA Midwest Official Doug Rice

“I have worked a lot of events in a lot of places, and you get to know players by some of their good play or bad behavior.”

Rice says he is always looking for new ways in which he can interact with players and continue the never-ending educational process of the game.

It is Rice’s goal to keep some of his personal flair in his officiating style but also promote a respectful environment for all players and coaches involved.

“The early-stage tournaments are more about education than applying rules; whatever the application, I try to put a little of myself into their position and be fair and more importantly, consistent,” said Rice. “What I put a lot into is the work at the event; I treat a Level 4 or higher event just like the U.S. Open, which I think players, parents and tournament directors appreciate.”

Over the course of his years officiating, Rice has worked some of the largest tournaments in the world, including six U.S. Opens, ATP and WTA professional events, including four Indian Wells Tournaments, and several ITA National Championships among others. Rice also serves as the chief umpire at the Boys’ Nationals in Kalamazoo. While it might be easy to get swept away by the grandness of the events, Rice looks at every event as just another day to promote the game of tennis and serve as a role model for officials to come.

“You help educate and support, and I’m all about helping and teaching, so this appeals to my nature,” said Rice. “When I was exposed to the game, there was only one person of color [Rodney Harmon] who was motivation for me to see in tennis.

“I like that I can be a constant ambassador of diversity and expose players and parents with an expanded ‘look’ of our sport.”

Rice says he would not be where he is today without the encouragement of those who came before him, including Joy Duerr, Rob Meister, Scott Elbin, Lynda Hinshaw and so many other officials. Rice hopes to honor his role models by continuously putting in good work.

While there are some challenges that come along with the role of official, such as long trips away from family and the misconception of being the bringer of mayhem at tournaments, Rice would not trade his experience for the world. Rice encourages any player who might be thinking about becoming an official to take the plunge.

“We need more officials, and I encourage anyone who is a fan of this game to see if they would like to become an official,” said Rice. “I’m a big fan of the adage 'Each one should teach one.' Anyone who works with me, or knows me, knows that I try to teach, train, and learn with other officials at every event.”

“It’s an important role that needs to be served."