Experience Arizona Pickleball Referee Association
Our Mission
Our mission is to uphold the integrity and fairness of every pickleball match by providing knowledgeable, professional, and consistent officiating. We are committed to ensuring a positive and respectful experience for players, spectators, and organizers alike, through impartial decision-making, clear communication, and a deep understanding of the game. By having a dedicated referee at every match, we strive to enhance the enjoyment and competitive spirit of pickleball, fostering an environment where the sport can thrive for players of all levels.
Arizona Pickleball Referee Association
Our Programs
Becoming the Best Referee: Elevating Our Pickleball Officiating Program
At APRA, we are committed to setting the gold standard for pickleball officiating. We believe that a great referee is not just someone who enforces the rules, but someone who elevates the game, ensures fairness, and fosters a positive atmosphere for all participants. Our program is designed to develop referees who exemplify professionalism, consistency, and integrity in every match they officiate.
Our Commitment to Excellence
To become the best referee in pickleball, we prioritize a combination of rigorous training, continuous education, and hands-on experience. We believe in investing in our referees, providing them with the tools and knowledge needed to officiate with confidence and clarity. Whether you're new to the sport or an experienced official, our program ensures that every referee has the resources to continually grow and improve.
Key Pillars of Our Referee Training Program
- Comprehensive Rule Knowledge
Understanding the official pickleball rules is the foundation of effective officiating. Our program includes in-depth training on all aspects of the game, from serving protocols to fault calls, helping referees make accurate, informed decisions on the court. - Real-Time Decision-Making
Referees must be quick on their feet and calm under pressure. Our hands-on training emphasizes the importance of real-time decision-making, allowing referees to build confidence and accuracy in high-stakes situations. - Communication & Interaction
Communication is key in fostering respect between players, coaches, and officials. We train our referees to be clear, concise, and approachable, ensuring they handle disputes and questions with professionalism and courtesy. Our referees are trained to explain calls when necessary and maintain a positive rapport with players to ensure a smooth match experience. - Consistency & Fairness
A great referee is consistent and impartial, regardless of the players or circumstances. Our program teaches referees how to maintain neutrality, ensure all rules are applied equally, and provide a level playing field for both seasoned players and newcomers. - Ongoing Development
Becoming the best referee is an ongoing journey. Our program offers regular refresher courses, live match experience, and feedback from senior referees to help each official continue growing. Referees are encouraged to seek constructive feedback and engage in a community of learning to stay sharp and evolve in their role.
Never Expect Perfection
We understand at APRA, we believe in creating a friendly and welcoming team environment where every referee feels supported and valued. Our community is built on mutual respect, collaboration, and the understanding that we’re all in this together to improve the sport and our craft. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll find camaraderie, encouragement, and the chance to learn from others in a positive, team-oriented atmosphere. become better officials over time.
A Friendly, Welcoming Team Environment
At APRA, we believe in creating a friendly and welcoming team environment where every referee feels supported and valued. Our community is built on mutual respect, collaboration, and the understanding that we’re all in this together to improve the sport and our craft. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll find camaraderie, encouragement, and the chance to learn from others in a positive, team-oriented atmosphere.
Pay Equality: The Best Teacher is Paid for Their Time
We value the time and effort our referees dedicate to officiating and believe in providing fair compensation for their work. From their very first match onward, referees are paid for their time, recognizing that every official deserves to be fairly compensated for their role in creating an excellent experience for players. This commitment to pay equality not only ensures that our referees feel appreciated but also underscores the importance of their work in maintaining the integrity of the game.
Why Choose Us?
As a group, we understand that great officiating enhances the overall pickleball experience. Whether it’s for recreational play, local tournaments, or professional events, our referees bring their best to every match. Our program emphasizes not only technical skill but also emotional intelligence, fairness, and a deep love for the sport. When you choose our officiating services, you can trust that you’re getting the highest level of professionalism and commitment to the game.
At APRA, we don’t just want to be referees—we want to be the best referees. Join us in shaping the future of pickleball officiating.
A Collection of Photos from Arizona Pickleball Referee Association
Contact Us
Better yet, see us in person!
Arizona Pickleball Referee Association
Surprise, Arizona, United States
720.666.2518 - Mike Sausser email: azpbref@aol.com
