NEDLANDS resident Rosario Corvaia is one of two WA officials who now holds an international tennis accreditation.
Corvaia was named a ITF Level 2 White Badge Chair Umpire holder when he visited Tokyo in March.
He was invited by the ITF Officiating Schools Programme to undertake a five day certification, which included theoretical and practical components, culminating in a final exam and chaired match in Yokohama.
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READ NOWFirst embarking on his journey of officiating tennis in 2012, the 24-year-old said he was overwhelmed during the presentation of his White Badge.
“It was such a special moment and such a huge achievement. I was very emotional when I saw the envelope containing my White Badge,” he said.
“Officiating tennis is my career, I can now travel the world doing what I love.”.
Corvaia has progressed through the officiating ranks over the past 17 years from Line Umpire and Court Supervisor, to his most recent role as Chair Umpire.
He said he would one day like to take on the role as the Chair Umpire on Centre Court at Wimbledon.
“The opportunities in front of me have changed significantly,” he said.
“Having my White Badge means I can now officiate anywhere in the world and on any surface. It will now allow me to umpire matches deeper into tournaments.
“The more matches I umpire, the more experience I gain and the closer I get to chairing my dream match on Centre Court at Wimbledon.”