Pickleball is booming in Canada—and so is the demand for referees. With over 1.54 million Canadians playing pickleball at least once a month, as of September 2025, you’d think there would be refs on every corner. However, here’s the reality: as of June 2024, there were only 269 credentialed referees nationwide (127 Level 1, 115 Level 2, and 27 Certified). That works out to one referee for every 5,700 players.
No wonder tournaments are scrambling to find officials!
At IPOP, we understand firsthand the challenges of this shortage. Whether it’s DUPR nights, leagues, or big tournaments, finding enough qualified refs can feel harder than winning a 30-ball rally. That’s why we’re stepping up with something new: a Referee Fast-Track Program in partnership with Michael Strenkowski, a Pickleball Canada Referee Trainer.
Why Referees Matter
Referees are the backbone of competitive pickleball. They keep matches fair, call foot faults, manage the score, and handle disputes, allowing players to focus on their game. Without them, tournament play slows down—or doesn’t happen at all.
SourceIn British Columbia, especially, sanctioned tournaments are popping up everywhere, but referees are often “spread thin” across multiple events. Organizers sometimes need to bring officials in from other regions, which isn’t sustainable. With sanctioned events growing every year across the country (Pickleball Canada), the need for more referees has never been greater.
The Path to Becoming a Ref in Canada
Pickleball Canada has established a national officiating framework that aligns with international standards. Here’s the journey:
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Step 1: Pass four online knowledge tests (Player, Line Judge, Referee, and Best Practices).
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Step 2: Gain on-court experience—at least 150 matches is recommended.
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Step 3: Complete a visual-acuity test (20/30 or better).
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Step 4: Get assessed at a sanctioned event or local venue, starting with Level 1, then Level 2, and eventually Certified (Pickleball Canada Officiating Program).
Source, Photo Credit: Mark Peifer
The challenge? Getting enough real match experience and finding opportunities for assessment. That’s where IPOP—and Michael—come in.
IPOP’s Fast-Track Referee Program
We’re thrilled to have Michael Strenkowski helping us lead this initiative. As a Pickleball Canada Referee Trainer, Michael brings unmatched knowledge, patience, and passion for building the next generation of referees.
His guidance means IPOP trainees get access to the same training materials, mentorship, and feedback you’d receive at the national level—but right here at our facility.
Check out the video with Michael and IPOP Chief Paddle Officer Chris White explaining our fast-track referee training program here:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPC2N7qAYg6/
If you don’t have time to watch the full, in-depth video, here’s a quick breakdown of how IPOPs' fast-track referee program works:
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Sign up by emailing hello@ipop.fun with your full name and the subject line: “Interested in Referee Program.”
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Get added to Pickleball Canada’s official trainee list and unlock training materials directly from Michael.
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Practice the tests as much as you want—no one sees your scores, it’s just for learning.
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Fast-track your 150 matches by reffing IPOP DUPR sessions, leagues, tournaments, and even open play.
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Learn with support: Michael and our IPOP team mentor you until you’re confident on court.
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Get assessed locally: when Michael thinks you’re ready, you’ll be evaluated at IPOP or a nearby sanctioned event.
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Eye exam included: an optometrist will handle your visual acuity test right here at IPOP.
Instead of waiting months (or longer) to hit the 150-match mark, you’ll rack up experience in a lively, supportive environment—with one of Canada’s top referee trainers cheering you on.
Why This Matters
For players, it means more consistent, professionally run tournaments. For referees, it’s a chance to level up your skills, get closer to the action, and give back to the sport you love. And for the pickleball community, it’s how we grow—not just in numbers, but in quality of play and fairness.
And having Michael Strenkowski, professional ref trainer, on board? That’s the game-changer. His expertise ensures our program doesn’t just meet national standards—it raises the bar.
Referee Fast-Track FAQ
💵 Do referees get paid?
Sometimes! At grassroots tournaments, it’s usually volunteer, but at provincial, national, and pro events, Certified referees are often paid.
⌛ Can I do this full-time?
Not yet. In Canada, refereeing is part-time or volunteer-based. But with growth, paid opportunities are expanding.
📈 Is there room for advancement?
Yes. The pathway goes from Level 1 → Level 2 → Certified Referee. Certified refs get medal matches and can mentor others.
👀 Do I need perfect vision?
You’ll need to pass a visual acuity test (20/30 or better). IPOP makes this easy by hosting on-site eye exams.
🎯 How long does it take?
Traditionally, months or longer. With IPOP’s fast-track, you can log matches weekly and move up quicker.
🙋 Who will mentor me?
That’s the best part—you’ll be coached by Michael Strenkowski, one of Canada’s top referee trainers, along with the IPOP team.
Ready to Put on the Ref Shirt?
If you’ve ever thought about becoming a referee, now’s the perfect time. IPOP’s fast-track program is built to make the process smoother, quicker, and more fun—with Michael’s expert mentorship along the way.
👉 Email hello@ipop.fun with your full name and the subject line “Interested in Referee Program” to get on the list.
Help us grow the game, one call at a time!