12 September 2025 | Tennis West

Parents of junior girls and boys playing in the upcoming 2025/26 Junior Summer League season have bought into the Junior 2025/26 Tennis West Summer League Officiating Pilot.

Tennis West has seen over 360 people sign up with 196 registered League Assistants and 165 Match Supervisors across 56 metro clubs.

This initiative has been developed in response to disappointing on-court Junior player behaviour and spectator interference and aims to support clubs in creating a safer and more enjoyable environment for players, parents, and spectators.

During the 2024/25 Tennis Season, 81% of code of behaviour offences have come from poor spectator (39%) and player behaviour (42%).

Importantly, this direction is backed by community feedback where 92% of respondents to the recent Tennis West Junior League survey agreed that the presence of trained league officials at all Junior League fixtures would help in reducing incidents of negative sideline and/or on-court behaviour.

The pilot introduces a two-pronged officiating model involving Match Supervisors and League Assistants, with clubs and parents assuming shared responsibility for maintaining a high standard of conduct and match integrity.

Tennis West facilitated 12 workshops at clubs across the metropolitan area as well as the State Tennis Centre delivered by Tennis Australia official referees Natalie Dellamarta and Jill Sheridan.

League Assistants and Match Supervisors were required to complete online modules and attend an in-person workshop. Up to 70 parents, coaches and club officials attended various sessions, with participants receiving a coloured vest and certificate of completion.

Match Assistants, which were already in place at junior leagues last season serve as the main person in charge. The newly introduced League Assistants will serve as the ‘eyes and ears’ and roam the courts on matchday, directing any issues to the Match Supervisor.

Tennis West Head of Competitions and League Shane Smedley was delighted by the proactive involvement of Junior League clubs in supporting the League Officiating pilot program.

“This initiative is designed to address unsuitable sideline and on-court behaviours during Junior League matches. Tennis West remains committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and encouraging environment for all children participating in our sport.”

Tennis Australia Officiating Development Coordinator – WA Jasmon Hilton praised the pilot program.

“The Summer League Officiating Pilot Plan creates a clear pathway for parents, club members, coaches and volunteers to become Officials with Tennis Australia.”

“Two Match Assistants have already progressed to Court Supervisors after completing some further practical training at recent Tennis West events,” said Jasmon.

Further resources around player education and sideline behaviour expectations will be sent to clubs in the coming weeks prior to the Junior Summer League starting.

Tennis West will support Tennis Australia’s vision of an unwavering commitment to integrity; reinforcing positive behaviour, culture, and social responsibility. Our goal is to ensure all tennis environments are welcoming, safe, and inclusive for everyone.

If you would like to become a member of the Officiating Team in WA, please contact Jasmon Hilton [email protected]