Background and Experience 

Gary Warnest’s journey into the world of table tennis began as a social player during his early years, but it evolved into a lifelong passion for competitive play and sports administration. In 1970, he began competing in table tennis and later served as the President of the Bendigo Table Tennis Association from 1993 to 2023. Throughout his tenure, Gary has remained dedicated to giving back to the sport that has brought him so much joy. 

In 2013, when Bendigo was selected to host the Oceania Tournaments, the need for local umpires and volunteers emerged. Neil Montfort ran an umpire course for a small group in Bendigo, which became the starting point for Gary’s umpiring career. Under the mentorship of experienced International Umpires, he was able to hone his skills and grow within the sport. 

Today, Gary spends most of his time as a referee rather than an umpire, and his dedication is evident from his involvement in over 15 tournaments this year, amassing more than 400 hours of officiating. His first experience as an umpire was particularly memorable—a thrilling and unforgettable moment as he served as Assistant Umpire at an International Oceania Tournament on a televised center court. 

Training and Preparation 

Becoming an official requires rigorous training and preparation. Gary has qualified as an International Umpire (White Badge) and a National Referee, which required attending courses, exams, and practical assessments. He explains that umpires manage individual matches, while referees manage the entire tournament. 

For each event, Gary ensures he is fully prepared. As a referee, this means validating tournament draws and overseeing various administrative tasks. As an umpire, he finds it helpful to refresh the table tennis rules and regulations before the event. 

A Day at the Tournament 

Gary describes a typical day at a tournament as filled with responsibilities. Before the event, he arrives early to ensure everything is ready for a smooth start. Throughout the day, he monitors the tournament to keep it on schedule, oversees player behavior, and resolves technical issues that arise. His responsibilities continue until the tournament concludes, followed by post-event assessments. 

During a match, the umpire’s primary responsibility is to control the game, not only by scoring but also by ensuring that all rules and regulations are followed to maintain fair play. When disagreements arise, Gary believes that it is essential to clarify decisions and provide explanations to players and coaches. While Gary enjoys officiating at high-level tournaments with top skill-level players, he finds fulfillment in umpiring for para players. For him and many other umpires, these matches bring a special sense of reward and satisfaction. 

Contributing to the Sport 

Since the retirement of Neil Montfort, Gary, along with Kameron Chan, have been responsible for running umpire courses in Victoria. Teaching and mentoring new umpires is something that brings Gary immense satisfaction. Seeing them excel and further their umpiring careers makes his contributions to the sport all the more worthwhile. 

Gary believes that several qualities make a good table tennis umpire. The capacity to know, remember, and apply the rules is fundamental, but an umpire must also be observant, consistent, and possess clear communication skills. These traits are crucial for maintaining fairness and ensuring the smooth running of tournaments. 

Future Aspirations 

Gary plans to continue his current involvement in teaching and officiating within Australia and assisting with tournaments in Oceania and the South Pacific Islands. While he acknowledges that he began his officiating career later in life, he encourages young people to get involved earlier so they can reap the rewards of contributing to the sport at the highest levels. 

With the Olympic Games in Brisbane looming in 2032, Gary sees this as an incredible opportunity for aspiring officials. He encourages anyone interested in becoming a table tennis umpire to take the leap now, as the sport is always in need of passionate and dedicated individuals willing to help run and manage it. 

Advice for Aspiring Umpires 

Gary’s message for those considering a career in officiating is clear: “Now is the time to act on your ambition.” Whether at the Olympic level or in local tournaments, being an official provides an opportunity to contribute to the sport, gain personal fulfillment, and be part of a community that shares a love for table tennis.  

Author: Oscar Yam