What Does a Pickleball Referee Do?

A pickleball referee plays a vital role in ensuring that matches are fair, safe, and played according to the official rules. While their presence is most common in sanctioned or competitive events and tournaments, referees also help create a smooth and enjoyable playing experience for everyone involved.

Core Responsibilities
Referees are responsible for managing the match from start to finish. This includes:

• Checking player readiness and calling the score before each serve
• Monitoring rally play to ensure rules are followed.
• Identifying service, Non-Volley Zone and other faults.
• Tracking the score, timeouts, and server/receiver positions.
• Intervening when necessary, such as in cases of rule violations or player disputes.