ASK THE REFEREE
What We Should Know
WHAT SHOULD I DO BEFORE I ARRIVE?
"Check the tournament website for the address of your match location on the morning you are to play. Make sure you know where you are supposed to be. Many times tournaments are played at several different locations, so be sure to understand where you are supposed to go."
WHAT HAPPENS IF I'M LATE?
"It's important that you show up at least 30 minutes prior to your assigned match start time. If you arrive 0-5 minutes past the scheduled match time you will be penalized 1 game. If you arrive 5-10 minutes past the assigned match time you will be penalized 2 games. Should you arrive 10-15 minutes late you will be penalized 3 games. Any later than 15 minutes past the assigned match time and you could be defaulted from the match."
DO I GET TO WARM UP?
"Yes. The referee will do a coin toss to determine who will serve first and then tell you that you have 5 minutes to warm up. Most referees will give you a 2 minute warning and at 5 minutes they will call time, meaning the match must start."
DO I KEEP SCORE?
"You must keep your own score. Call it out loudly, don't hesitate. Call it as soon as you see it loud enough for your opponent to hear you. You don't get as confused if everyone knows what the score is after each point. As a referee, it is not my job to keep the score. My job is a matter of law, to make sure everyone is playing fairly."
WHAT'S MOST IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER?
"Most importantly, for any player, tennis is about having fun! Compete as hard as you can, but always remember to have fun. Love it and enjoy the game, regardless of whether you are winning or losing."