Nico Caltabiano has reached the elite level of world umpiring after achieving his Blue Badge status.

The popular umpire is one of only four from around the world to have been added to the latest list published by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF).

The 47-year-old, who is from Southampton, has spoken about joining the elite officials in the world – click below to watch the video.

Nico becomes the sixth English official to currently have Blue Badge status, alongside Neil Curtis, David Edwards, Harry Jutle, John Mackey and Tom Purcell.

He has also encouraged anyone else with an interest in umpiring to sign up to take a course and begin an officiating journey which could take you around the world.

He added: “You have the best seat in the house. It’s something that is sometimes a lot of pressure because of spectators and players, but it’s nice to be there and enjoy the tournament.”

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