The Victorian Community Tennis Awards recognise Victoria’s on and off court success in a community tennis celebration. Congratulations to the following three finalists for the Excellence in Officiating award!
Dianne Larkin
Dianne Larkin has had an exceptional career as a top international umpire and former international chair umpire, all while balancing full-time work. She continues to contribute as an international Chief Umpire and officiating educator in Australia. Dianne regularly serves as Chief Umpire at Pro Tour events and the Summer of Tennis, including Canberra and the Australian Open—2024 marking her 40th year officiating at the event.
As an educator in both the Introduction to Chair Umpire Program and Chair Umpire Academy, Dianne is always generous with her time, supporting and mentoring the next generation of officials. In October 2024, she officiated as Chief Umpire at a WTA event in China, further highlighting her international impact.
Dianne is a respected role model and leader. Known for her professionalism, approachability, and dedication, she continues to inspire and positively influence officials at all levels.
Phillip Goodman
Phillip Goodman exemplifies leadership, dedication, and innovation in the officiating space. Having not only serviced the sport at the highest of levels in 2024-2025, Phillip also regularly gives back at the Competitive Play level, making himself available for many events. Phillip is known for his holistic approach to Officiating, taking into consideration the Modern Approach to Officiating. He creates bespoke learning opportunities as a coach and an educator to new court supervisors embarking on their officiating journey and to referees coming through the Referee Development Program. He is attuned to the requirements of players, their environment, as well as his fellow officials.
At the 2025 Australian Open, Phillip was the Assistant Referee for the Wheelchair event. Phillip also presented ‘Officiating People with a Disability’ at the 2025 Australian Sports Commission Coaching and Officiating Conference, highlighting his deep passion and respect for all participants of our sport to ensure they have a safe, fair and inclusive experience.
Furthermore, he is regularly the referee for various ITF Juniors and Masters events, Junior Nationals, as well as the ATP 75k Challenger in Playford.
Matthew Quick
Matthew Quick is a dedicated and reliable official who continues to grow within the officiating pathway. He has contributed across Australia at local UTR and ITF Pro Tour events, and his commitment was recognised when he earned his White Badge in China.
In 2024, Matthew officiated at several international events, including the WTA 500 in Seoul as a line umpire, and as a chair umpire in Guam and at the Osaka Mayor’s Cup J500 in Japan. He was also appointed to chair the doubles final in Guam.
A former ballkid, Matthew now inspires others by sharing his journey into officiating. He’s known for his professionalism, eagerness to learn, and willingness to mentor up-and-coming officials.
Once again, congratulations to all the finalists on being nominated for this award!
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