Pickleball Canada is aware of the recent statement made by MRGENCE regarding its Referee Program. Pickleball Canada does not endorse, promote, or recognize this program. We remain committed to expanding and strengthening referee development, including the development of a standardized national referee training curriculum and the recent hiring of dedicated support staff to help build and support the program within Quebec.
Pickleball Quebec has made efforts to work with MRGENCE; however, the MRGENCE Referee program has chosen to operate independently of Pickleball Canada and directly conflicts with the Pickleball Canada existing officiating structure and programming. This initiative is not affiliated with Pickleball Canada, and any certifications or accreditations obtained through MRGENCE are not recognized by the Global Pickleball Federation, Pickleball Canada or its provincial governing bodies.
To officiate at any Pickleball Canada-sanctioned event, including Provincial Championships and the National Championships, referees must hold valid credentials through Pickleball Canada’s officiating program as outlined on Pickleball Canada’s website.
Furthermore, the participation of a referee in the MRGENCE officiating program will result in a review of their Pickleball Canada Officiating credential and their status as a registered referee in good standing with Pickleball Canada.