Bill Wallace, husband of our past president Terry Wallace, earned his certification as a USA Pickleball referee at the Pacific Northwest Classic in Bend, OR, this July. Here's a little more about Bill and his journey as a referee:
What interested you in refereeing? And what prompted your decision to go for certification?
At a tournament in Hawaii and I was able to referee there. I wasn't even a Level 1 but was assigned a pro match and really enjoyed it and decided I could work towards getting my Level 2. I completed my Level 2 certification last year, at the Pacific Northwest Regional tournament that was here in Boise. Kevin Johnson, Steve Torano, Paul Straube and Ken Reynolds assisted me.
What was the most interesting match you have refereed?
A recent one at the Brigham City tournament. I was on center court with a pro match, and called a service fault on a pro for being out of position. He wasn't happy but after I explained the score and the situation, he finally agreed I was correct.
What is your least favorite rule in pickleball?
Currently... Rule 4.K which is the wrong score called. When the wrong score is called, play shall continue to the end of the rally. There are other variables that you have to know that include a referee error. The bottom line is play the point out and correct it before the next serve.
What rule do most players argue over?
The hinder rule. It usually occurs when a player hits the ball and then calls a hinder. They realize they hit a bad shot and decide to call a hinder. You can't have it both ways. Make sure you call the hinder before you hit your shot.
Anything else you would like to share with our members?
I do like the new rule this year that allows a referee to issue a Verbal Warning (only 1 per team) on violations other than language. It is a better way for the referee to control the match. AND... For anyone that is interested in becoming a certified referee, I would recommend reading the rule and handbook and keep taking the referee tests, and practice refereeing as much as possible.
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