How Safe Are We As Officials?

We all live in a day and age where SECURITY is foremost on everyone's minds--and it has become increasingly important for us as tennis officials. Since the average roving tennis official in Texas is responsible for 11 courts and usually at a remote site, this should be an issue that concerns us all.

There is not a day that goes by without reading about an irate parent or fan who shoots, assaults, or even kills a coach or official in some sport. Because of this increasing danger, we all need to be on constant guard as officials. We have all been in that situation where we have encountered a irate parent, player, or coach so we need to be aware of how to deal with this dangerous and volatile situation. Let me deal with this issue in two separate areas:

ROVING AT USTA TOURNAMENTS

This is probably the arena in which we are most vulnerable due to the lack of communication, supervision, and security. Many times we are in a remote location with only cell phone contact with the tournament desk and even less ability to access security in the case of an emergency. Here are some tips:

* Always be aware of your setting. Know the entrances and exits well--you never know when you will need them.

* If you are in an unsecure location which has elements of danger, be sure to stay in constant contact with your tournament desk or referee.

* Be very aware of the behavior of parents, fans, coaches, and players. Learn to read their body language as well as their verbal communications.

* Check to see if there is security at your location. If so, be sure to contact them when you first come to the site so they are aware of your presence. If not, have your cell phone programmed to 911 so you can access it in an emergency.

* Do not be afraid to call for security when there is any sign of physical danger. It is much better to err on the side of caution.

* Do not be confrontational with offending parties but do not tolerate physical threats or contact. Immediately call for help and have them removed from the site.

* Be sure to report any dangerous or suspicious behavior to your tournament director and/or referee. Hopefully these reports will be forwarded to the USTA and Texas Section offices.

ITA AND PROFESSIONAL EVENTS

These two areas present a much safer and monitored environment for officials. Professional events are usually very well protected and guarded.

ITA events are also monitored in most settings. All Division I schools should have a security force available and most of them will have a staff representative on duty for your match. If not, be sure to follow many of the suggestions given above.

Here are a few for ITA events:

* Always determine the availability and capability of university security before the match begins. Be sure they are on duty or have a school representative in attendance.

* Discuss the issue of security with the home head coach before the match begins.

* Notify the home head coach of any hint of trouble in the area of security for the officials. Do not take anything lightly.

* Always be aware of the crowd around you. The home school is responsible for monitoring crowd behavior but a wise official is always aware of their surroundings.

* If you are officiating a match without security, check with the home head coach about procedures before the match. Do not "leave it up to someone else" and just hope someone is protecting you.

* Communicate freely with other officials. We all need to be watching over each other so be free with your channels of communication.

These are just a few helpful hints. We would welcome any other suggestions.