USTA Texas Official,


As some of you are aware, the USTA has recently adopted the stand that USTA Officials are not to wear the USTA-logoed apparel at non-USTA events. This has been brewing for a couple of years now and finally came to a speedy head during the past few days. This includes ITA (collegiate), UIL, non-sanctioned, ITA, WTA, and any other event where USTA officials are used to officiate in any capacity.


Since we are in the middle of many of these seasons and have no alternatives at this time, I am issuing the following instructions:

  1. Most Division I events have been using the black shirt with the ITA logo. Please continue to wear these shirts to do your matches. For any ITA events where these shirts are not used and the standard USTA shirt is worn, please wear a navy or black polo-style shirt. If there is more than one official, I ask that you all wear the same color, which means communicating a bit prior to the event.
  2. For all other events including UIL, non-sanctioned, and all non-USTA events, please wear the navy or black polo shirt. A navy shirt may be better just to distinguish you from the ITA shirts above, but just agree on a color prior to the event in the case of more than one official.
  3. All USTA-logoed accessories (caps, visors, bags, and outerwear) are not allowed at these events either. Please take care to use alternate gear or at least cover up the logo(s).

The USTA and ITA are considering alternatives as we speak, but nothing has been decided, and this process will likely take at least a few weeks for any new shirt to become available. The black ITA shirts currently used here in Texas are not available from Bear Cotton at this time. This will be the case until some agreement is reached.


I personally am maddened at this hastiness of this action. We are all aware of the hardship this may place on some officials. These USTA’s actions are based on liability and branding concerns, also known as legalities. I ask that you comply, to the best of your ability, and please stay tuned for more information as it comes out. I will use email and the Texas Official’s Twitter to update you. For you newer officials, please communicate with your referee or assignor if you have any questions or doubts as to what shirt to wear. Please keep in mind that any shirt you have to purchase may be used as a deduction on your taxes.

One final word, I ask that you maintain your professional attitudes as we deal with this. Do not believe or spread any rumors you may hear concerning these actions, event though they may be true. I promise to share any legitimate information to you as described.


Thanks for your cooperation and keep up the good work,


Bruce Sampley

USTA Texas Section Chair of Officials