Become A USTA Official

You love tennis. You would like to give back. What better way to give back to the game you love than being an official?

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a severe shortage of officials in all sports. According to the Aspen Institute, 80 percent officials quit in their third year. 

Tennis needs officials, as well.

With players soon back in action, the need for officials comes with it. According to Vicki Elwood, who represents St. Louis on the Missouri Valley Officials Committee, a tennis official has many responsibilities to prepare for an event. Nevertheless, she said, it is rewarding work.

“Being a Roving Official is one of the most important and challenging officiating roles,” Elwood said. “They are also the most needed officials at the grassroots level. They prepare the courts for play, they need to be prepared with a uniform and equipment, they need to be a team player and need to remain visible.”

Elwood has been an official for 12 years. In order to become an official, one must complete several steps. You can find these steps here. First, you must be a USTA member, register at OfficialsFirst – the USTA Officiating Database, be in compliance with the USTA Safe Play Program and several other requirements. 

Officials have the potential to take part in all USTA events: Junior, Adult, College, and Professional USTA Tournaments.

One of the best parts of being an official, Elwood said, is the people you meet. In addition, you have the opportunity to educate players on the game.

“You are able to educate and enforce the rules of tennis.  You also meet and work with officials from all backgrounds and ethnicities.”

You can find the list of area officials here.