Chair Umpire
Overview
A Chair Umpire is responsible for all aspects of the match they are assigned to, and ensure the players abide by the Rules of Tennis, the Code of Behaviour, and the Tournament Regulations on court.
In the absence of some or all Line Umpires, the Chair Umpire assumes all their duties except those that may be delegated to another Umpire or to the players.
Role and Responsibilities
- Calling and keeping the score
- Calling lines (when no line umpires are present)
- Coin toss
- Calling lets
- Enforcing the rules
- Managing the players
- Final authority on all questions of fact
Attributes
- Good vision
- Remains calm under pressure
- Punctual
- Confident
- Knowledgeable on ITF Rules of Tennis
Qualifications
Chair Umpire Pathways
To become a Chair Umpire, typically an official has completed a Line Umpire and Court Supervisor Course prior to starting their Chair Umpire journey.
This provides the official with the on and off court experience when dealing with different scenarios.
It is recommended that officials interested in completing this course have had some Adjudication experience.
Officials should work a number of Regional and Local tournaments to gain the necessary experience before applying for events such as the National Championships and ITF Junior Events.
To become a National Chair Umpire, typically an official has completed a Line Umpire and Court Supervisor Course prior to starting their Chair Umpire journey.
This provides the official with the on and off court experience when dealing with different scenarios.
Officials are to complete a National Chair Umpire Course before they can officiate at events such as the National Championships, ITF Junior Events and qualifying rounds at WTT level events.
Any NZ Officials that would like attend a White Badge (Level 2) Chair Umpire Course are required to pass a National Chair Umpire Course.
NZ officials are to contact Tennis New Zealand about registering on the ITF Officiating Portal, to then start uploading their work experience.
It is essential that officials are actively officiating to a high standard, ideally an official has a substantial amount of experience in National and ITF Junior events to increase your chances of selection.
Once a Chair Umpire has obtained sufficient experience and National qualification, officials can keep an eye on the portal for upcoming courses and apply online. Your application will be reviewed by your National Association and if endorsed, it will be sent to ITF Officiating for consideration.
All Level 2 Courses are taught in English and held across the world and at various dates/locations.
Upcoming White Badge (Level 2) Chair Umpire Courses:
- Tbilisi, Georgia | 5-9 December 2024 - Applications closed
Once an official has successfully completed a Level 2 (White Badge) Chair Umpire School and obtained a White Badge certification, an official is then eligible to apply for a Level 3 Bronze Badge School. If you pass this final level of schooling, you will achieve International status.
Promotions to Silver Badge are discussed during the end of year re-certification meeting by the panel, comprised of members of the Joint Certification Programme (ITF, ATP, WTA and Grand Slam tournaments).
Promotions to Gold Badge are discussed during the end of year re-certification meeting by the panel, comprised of members of the Joint Certification Programme (ITF, ATP, WTA and Grand Slam tournaments).
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