The Northern Territory Institute of Sport (NTIS), in collaboration with Tennis Australia, is hosting an Officiating Workshop for officials from all sports in Alice Springs next Thursday, 21 September.

Tennis Australia special guest officiators Marko Savic and Leanne Usher are attending the free event,  which aims to empower fellow officials by assisting them on how to effectively receive feedback – both positive and critical.

The Department of Tourism and Culture’s Executive Director of Sport and Recreation, Phillip Leslie, said the workshop was being held to support and recognise the important role of officials, while also providing a sense of community for officiators within sport.

“Sport is a way of life in the Territory and it’s really important that we provide great support to the officials who help create a vibrant and quality sporting community.

“This is the second workshop this year. This workshop will focus on how officials can better handle feedback – both positive and negative, and subsequently improve their own performance.

“The program is a 90 minute forum for officials to exchange ideas, have a chance to talk and share experiences, as well as receive a presentation from the NTIS on its mission for the development of officials. The Tennis Australia Officials will also have the opportunity to share their tips about officiating professional sport.

“Officiating is a vital component for the successful running of competitive sport, and the workshop will involve a chance for officials from various sports to share their experiences and learn from each other,” Mr Leslie said.

Marko Savic of Sydney is a young Tennis Australia official who has made his way through the officiating ranks in a short space of time. In the last 12 months, Savic has chair umpired at international level in Australia in several states, and more recently in Europe.

Leanne Usher of Alice Springs has umpired at the last five Australian Opens in Melbourne, and also officiated in international events in several Australian states including South Australia and Queensland.

The workshop is being held Thursday 21 September 2017 from 5:30pm-7:00pm at Monas Members’ Bar, TIO Traeger Park Oval, Alice Springs.

To learn more or to register for this free event, visit https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/alice-springs-officiating-workshop-registration-37593143103.

Media interview
Phillip Leslie Executive Director of Sport and Recreation

Media contact
Sport and Recreation, Department of Tourism and Culture | Media Manager 0476 844 832