Steve Phillips
Chris Jermin
Janis Duwe
It is with great pride that we congratulate SaddleBrooke Ranch Pickleball Association (SBRPA) club members Chris Jerman and Steve Phillips for becoming USAPA (USA Pickleball Association) Certified Referees. Chris and Steve are, in fact, in an elite club right now as they are the 48th and 49th referees to be certified nationally. Becoming a USAPA Certified Referee is a rigorous process that involves test taking, participating in clinics, refereeing many matches and a very comprehensive on-court evaluation in tournament games and medal matches. This is the gold standard in our sport for referees, and we now have two at SaddleBrooke Ranch.
Steve and members of his RIT (Rules Interpretation Trainer) committee held a new referee training class at the Ranch pickleball courts on March 19. Seven members of the SBRPA and five members of the SaddleBrooke Pickleball Association (SPA) participated in the class. Participants learned the basics of refereeing including many tips from Steve based on his years of experience. Volunteer players helped simulate playing conditions, and participants were able to practice refereeing in real time. Participants received certificates that permit them to referee matches at varying levels of competition as their skill and experience increases.