APP Appoints Industry Leaders to Transform Officiating: The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) has announced significant appointments aimed at elevating the standards of officiating within the sport, signaling a crucial moment in its commitment to professionalizing pickleball tournaments worldwide.
Leadership in Officiating
Byron Freso, a prominent figure in the pickleball community and seasoned industry veteran, assumes the role of director of international referee training for the APP. Freso’s appointment comes with a mandate to enhance referee education on a global scale, leveraging his extensive experience as a 5.0-rated player and over 12 years of refereeing service with the APP. His tenure as director of officials has been characterized by careful supervision of player conduct and ensuring top-tier officiating across all APP tournaments.
Ken Herrmann, founder of the APP, expressed his confidence in Freso, stating,
“Byron Freso has championed the APP since day one as one of our most steadfast supporters, He’s the best at what he does, and I am thrilled that he will lead the charge as we develop continued referee education on a global level. Meanwhile, Mike Baumgardner has proven himself as one of the APP head referees this past year. He has the respect and credibility of all USA Pickleball referees, and I am delighted to have his support as we build on Byron’s momentum for our officiating.”
Alongside Freso, Mike Baumgardner steps into the role of director of officiating, bringing over five years of hands-on experience within the APP ecosystem. Baumgardner’s credentials include officiating high-profile matches at the USA Pickleball National Championships and serving as lead referee for multiple stops on the APP Tour. His appointment underscores the APP’s commitment to maintaining consistency and professionalism in officiating standards across all events.
“I am honored and humbled to expand my officiating role with the APP Tour. The opportunity to work with the incredible APP staff as well as the hard-working, dedicated, and professional referees to produce a high-quality event for pros and amateurs alike is thrilling. I look forward to the endless possibilities that lie ahead for this amazing sport and where the APP Tour will take it.” – (Baumgardner)
Forward Momentum
As pickleball’s popularity continues to soar, driven by both grassroots enthusiasm and professional competition, the APP’s strategic focus on officiating marks a critical step in aligning the sport with global sporting standards. Appointments of Freso and Baumgardner are set to enrich the educational resources for referees, promote best practices, and uphold fairness and integrity across all levels of play.
“My goal is to empower referees to excel in their roles and contribute positively to the growth of pickleball on a global scale, I am committed to providing education, mentorship, and training to international referees to enhance their skills and contribute positively to the growth of the sport with the APP.” – (Freso)
With the OWL APP Newport Beach Open on the horizon, scheduled for July 3-7 in Southern California, all eyes are on the APP’s initiatives to further professionalize and promote pickleball refereeing. As the sport’s trajectory continues upward, these leadership appointments stand as a testament to the APP’s commitment to fostering a world-class environment for players and fans.
News in Brief: APP Appoints Industry Leaders to Transform Officiating
The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) has appointed Byron Freso as the director of international referee training and Mike Baumgardner as the director of officiating, signaling a significant move towards enhancing officiating standards in pickleball worldwide. Freso, a seasoned player and long-time referee, brings extensive experience to elevate referee education globally.
Baumgardner, known for officiating prestigious matches, strengthens the APP’s commitment to consistency and professionalism. These appointments aim to uphold fairness, integrity, and global sporting standards, reflecting the APP’s dedication to advancing pickleball amid its rising popularity. The upcoming OWL APP Newport Beach Open serves as a platform to showcase these efforts.
Also read: APP Newport Beach Open Begins from July 3rd
