This year’s School welcomed 9 participants from 8 Member Associations across the continent: Colombia, Dominican Republic, Chile, Peru, USA, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Paraguay.
The International Referee School is a pivotal part of the ITTF’s ongoing efforts to develop top-tier referees, and it aims to empower referees with the knowledge and skills needed to manage high-stakes international table tennis events.
The course was expertly delivered by a trio of ITTF trainers: Werner Thury (AUT) contributed remotely, while Freddy Almendariz (ECU) and Ramon Ortega-Montes (ESP) provided in-person instruction, mentorship, and evaluation.
The course delivered 32 hours of intensive training, and the course content covered a wide range of essential topics, including modern methods of sport presentation, the art and philosophy of refereeing, effective communication, leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, public draws, and scheduling (with a special emphasis on umpire coordination). Additionally, participants were exposed to Para table tennis regulations and digital tools that are now available to support referees at the international level.
“Before coming to the course, I had no idea about the concept of WTT events and the large number of specific rules they involve. Now I feel equipped with the tools to work hard and stay updated before refereeing internationally.” – Daniel Reynolds (USA), participant
“I’ve refereed nationally and occasionally in international events hosted in Chile. Now, I look forward to traveling abroad to improve and grow as an international referee.” – Francisco Hernandez (CHI), participant
Following four intensive days of theory, discussion, and hands-on training, five participants were officially recognized as new International Referees:
- William Englebreth (USA), Daniel Reynolds (USA), Francisco Hernandez (CHI), Esteban Maroto (CRC) and Luis Reinoso (ECU).
“After years of working closely with Latin America and laying the foundations for referee development, it’s a true honor to be here in Cuenca, Ecuador, leading an International Referee School in the region. With candidates from eight different countries and the only course of its kind this year worldwide, this is a milestone not just for the Americas, but for the future of officiating in table tennis. Seeing the seeds we planted years ago now begin to bloom fills me with pride and joy. I’m grateful to contribute to the growth of such passionate referees and support the continued rise in quality and professionalism of our sport in Pan America.” – Ramon ORTEGA-MONTES (Moncho), Trainer – ITTF International Referee School, Cuenca
“I am very happy to be part of this ITTF URC course supported by the ITTF Sports Development Program. The last IR School in the Americas was held in Colombia in 2016, and now, 9 years later, the ITTF-Americas URC has worked very hard in close collaboration with the ITTF URC and the ITTF Development Program to bring this important course back to the Americas and prepare more people. I am confident that hosting this course in the Americas again will be a great advantage for the continent and ITTF. As a member of the ITTF Competition Team, I also see this as a very positive step, knowing that the number of events in the region is growing and that we need more trained and professional officials to cover all the needs.” – Freddy Almendariz, ITTF Continental Events Manager
As part of its wider strategy, ITTF is planning numerous advanced educational activities for referees and match officials in 2025: 16 Advanced Umpires Training & Advanced Rules Examination Activities, 18 Blue Badge Evaluations, and 7 Umpires’ Assessment activities. With the support of dedicated experts, participants, and Member Associations, the ITTF will continue to support the future of table tennis officiating, ensuring that the sport’s integrity and fairness are maintained at every level of competition.
