The Technical Officials Committee (TOC) webinar this week brought together 94 umpires, referees and tournament organisers.

The Technical Officials community normally meet regularly at competitions, but have not been able to do so for almost a year, so the webinar was a chance to catch up virtually with friends and colleagues and to hear updates from TOC. The webinar was also joined by three umpiring colleagues from Wales.

There was an update and discussion on the latest changes to ITTF regulations, such as the alteration of doubles shirts rules, as well as expert answers to pre-submitted questions on subjects ranging from service law to Japanese star Tomokazu Harimoto stamping his feet!

Information was also circulated about how the Commonwealth Games umpire selection process will work, inputting umpire records into the TT Memberships (Sport80) platform, the new officials’ uniforms which will be brought into full use during the 2021/22 season and the Level 1 referee exams.

Tom Purcell provided an informative view of the life of a Blue Badge Umpire with some of his illuminating and interesting tales from around the world.

A total of 11 people on the call have confirmed they wish to take further qualifications in refereeing and tournament organising.

Officials who were unable to attend the webinar can watch it below: