Officiating Spotlight: Maria Lackey
November 14-18 is Officiating Appreciation Week. This week we’re celebrating the hard work and dedication of USTA Officials who help keep the sport of tennis fair and fun. Tennis referees and officials come from all backgrounds and walks of life from across Texas, but share a common vision: helping keep tennis competition fair and friendly.
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Q&A with USTA Official, Maria Antoinette Lackey
Tell us a little about yourself…
I’m originally from Atlanta where I was born and raised. I’m the oldest of three sisters, all four of us play tennis. I came to Texas to attend Prairie View A&M University on a full tennis scholarship. I studied psychology and counseling, and received my bachelor’s and masters from PVAMU. I love my family and I love the Lord Jesus, my Faith is huge to me and I love learning about God. I love to learn, travel and be part of anything sports related. My favorite colors are orange and brown. My favorite foods are Buffalo and Lemon-pepper Wings. One thing on my bucket list is to travel outside of the country.
Why did you become an Official?
I grew up playing the sport, so I became a USTA official to experience the sport of tennis in a new way.
How did you get introduced to officiating?
My Mom and tennis coach introduced me to officiating. My mom is a USTA official in Atlanta. My tennis coach is a tournament director in Atlanta.
How often do you officiate?
Two to three weekends out of the month.
Where do you officiate?
Mainly in the Houston, Katy, Spring areas.
What is your background with the sport of tennis?
I started playing tennis at the age of 12. My three sisters started playing tennis before me. I started playing USTA junior tournaments at 13 years old. I played tournaments almost every weekend. When I got to high school, I played on the Varsity team at Norcross High School in Norcross, Ga. for all four years in High School. Two of my sisters played on the team with me as well. In addition to playing in high school, I play in USTA local, sectional and national tournaments. In the summer seasons, my sisters and I spent the majority of the time training or coaching 10-and-under kids. We coached many summer camps at Emory University in Atlanta. I went on to play on the Division 1 collegiate level at PVAMU from 2013 to 2017. After college, I entered into graduate school at PVAMU and began coaching tennis. I coached at different academies in the Cypress and Katy area. Now I’m an official 
Do you think having a background as a player helps you as an official?
Yes it does. It helps me relate and empathize with the players. It also helps me to encourage players who are new to playing tournaments and the sport of tennis.
What piece of advice would you share with a new official?
Have fun! Be confident, assertive and respectful. Read the rules regularly.
What is your favorite part of officiating?
Calling lines and engaging with the players and parents.
What is the most challenging part of officiating?
The most challenging part of officiating is learning all the rules. The second would be working during the summer season.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you on a tennis court?
Forgetting the score while I was on the court.
What does the future hold for your officiating career?
I would love to chair and/or call lines in one of the Grand Slam tournaments.
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