2021.3.14

British Tennis Umpire Association

1980s

This accessory was the only official umpire bag issued by a country's governing body allowed on professional tennis courts. The minimal design includes a durable and water resistant synethic material that provides a specific tool that umpires needed during matches. Mary Lou Tierney was able to use this critical item at any event in any country, as the bag was not restricted at global tournaments. Owning a bag from the BTUA (British Tennis Umpires Association) was a sign of having achieved the status of officiating at Wimbledon.

Considered a line and chair umpire's survival bag, the contents typically included implements needed for officiating a match and completing a paper scorecard. Often included were:
A measuring tape to maintain net height both in the center and at the sides.
A handheld mechanical stopwatch, as an umpire could not reply on batteries.
Coins for a coin toss.
Pencils, pens, and highlighters for marking scorecards before during and after matches.
Black zip ties for fixing the net.
Safety pins for repairing clothing malfunctions.
A place to keep tournament credentials.
When observing the photograph of the BTUA bag, make note of its wear and tear based on high usage.