Referee Corner
M
MEET MADDIE TOREN , THE YOUNGEST USA PICKLEBALL CERTIFIED REFEREE by DOUG BATES
USA PICKLEBALL CERTIFIED REFEREE
Maddie Toren is disproving the notion that the USA Pickleball certified referee pool skews toward retirement age . At 19 , the Phoenix native is the youngest certified referee and uses her popular social media channels to tout the benefits of joining the referee community .
Toren gained experience by shadowing certified referee Bill McManus , a referee coordinator at the 2023 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships and other tournaments . “ Shadowing is extremely important in the training of referees ,” McManus said . “ It gives them real game experience with great immediate feedback and yet does not negatively affect the players ’ experience .”
USA Pickleball : Maddie , what is your background ? What sparked your interest in pickleball ?
Maddie Toren : Before discovering pickleball , my sole sports background was in middle school basketball . Transitioning to “ unschooling ” ( students exploring their interests , not teachers completing a curriculum ) in grade 10 allowed me to explore diverse interests , leading me to become a certified yoga instructor for kids and launching my online teaching business . During the pandemic , my family stumbled upon pickleball paddles while seeking an outdoor activity , and after just one game we were all instantly captivated by the sport ’ s excitement and fun .
USA Pickleball : Why did you become interested in being a certified referee ?
MT : As an introverted individual growing up , refereeing was not initially a natural choice for me . However , as my dad and I got more invested in participating in pickleball tournaments , community members suggested refereeing to make extra money . Despite my reservations , I recognized it as an avenue to bolster my selfconfidence .
USA Pickleball : How was the journey ? Certified referee Bill McManus was an important mentor to you . How did shadowing him — a critical step in the process — help you ?
MT : Moving from a certified line judge to credentialed level 1 and beyond was extremely rewarding . Shadowing Bill opened doors for me to discover my voice , igniting a determination to pursue certification in refereeing . The initial shadowing experience with Bill provided vital insight and validation for me to find the drive I needed to continue my refereeing journey with support from many other referees .
USA Pickleball : You are a remarkably busy person . You started a media company and are now seen on the courts helping players with their social media presence . How did that come about ?
MT : It has been such an exciting opportunity to work in the management end of pickleball . I got my start after Zane Navratil reached out , offering me an internship . That blossomed into making further connections in the sport and launching PKLD Agency .
USA Pickleball : Do you have any advice for younger players about becoming a referee ?
MT : My advice is to take the leap and get started today ! It is a terrific way to earn money in an enjoyable setting while gaining invaluable game knowledge . With the sport ’ s rapid growth , you never know where this journey could lead you . Explore the first steps at usapickleball . org . •
New Certified Referees Carol Manifold — San Diego , CA Stephen Newkirk — Sun Lakes , AZ Gary Coleman — Oceanport , NJ Adam Goldsmith — Richmond , VA
Learn more about how to become a referee at usapickleball . org / get-involved / pickleball-officiating .
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