I was selected to go to Sun River to work the Adult and Senior Mixed doubles Sectionals! This is for work; I’ll be working…I had to remind myself as I packed the swimsuit and tennis bag just in case.

from left: Darryl Kealy, Corinne Mitchell, Denise Alexander, and Tournament Referee John Flynn

Living with three officials (and two officials’ wives) for five days was a fun and educational experience. We worked long days and discussed the day’s events in the evening.  The “debriefing”, as I came to call it, began to remind me of an art class I took in college. “Corinne! Hold up your drawing for the class to criticize –er, critique.” It was humbling to sit in this group in general but I really felt the heat when my answers to some situations revealed how green I really was; my giant balloon of confidence at having been selected for this gig went pffffftttt.

So my balloon took a hit, it was for the greater good. I was still very excited to be a part of this event as were my housemates. We supported each other and worked this event as a team by sharing information, advice, and humor; like when Darryl asked a player to call heads or tails and the player nervously called, “up!” Don’t forget to share the funny stuff–do you have a story to share?

Happy officiating!