Tennis Australia Appoints new Chief Umpire
Experienced tennis official Cheryl Jenkins has been appointed Chief Umpire of the Australian Open. Mrs Jenkins is the tournament’s first female Chief Umpire.
Brian Grace will retire from the top job after many years of service and would be consulting the new ones so that smooth operations can be maintained.
A responsibility that would see her overlook 400 officials, she would be responsible for the umpiring operations at the Australian Open.
“I’m very honoured and privileged to fill the shoes of Brian and step into the role of Australian Open Chief Umpire,” Jenkins said. “Being the first Australian female hopefully inspires more female officials. Never in my wildest dreams as a ballkid running around the courts at the old Milton stadium did I ever consider being a Chief Umpire, let alone being the Chief at the Australian Open.”
She further added, “As a ballkid watching the umpires, my goal was to be a travelling umpire like Donna Kelso. She is someone who certainly inspired me to get involved in officiating and someone I’m lucky to call a friend.”
“Officiating has without a doubt had a great impact on my life. From something that started out as a hobby, following my Dad and brothers in officiating, to where I am today working in a sport that has given me so many wonderful memories with so many more to come,” Jenkins added.
“To see Cheryl become the first female Chief Umpire of the Australian Open is a fantastic moment in the tournament’s history,” Australian Open Tournament Director Craig Tiley said. “Cheryl has been working in our team for a decade and has 27 years’ experience as a tournament official. We couldn’t think of a better person for the role.”
“We look forward to working with her and the team to ensure our tournament continues to run smoothly.”
from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/2GG1L1C
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