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Become a Referee

A referee, with whistle in hand, manages the game, ensuring both safety and fairness. Each game is different, with a varied level of skillset, age, threshold and regulations. Referees are trained by accredited educators to apply the right standard of enforcement to each game.

Becoming a basketball referee is more than just knowing the rules, it’s about game management, communication, effort and constant learning. Alongside all other participants of the sport, referees help keep the sport safe, enjoyable and fair.

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Requirements & Getting Involved

To join Eltham Wildcats referees, email Des Buchan at des@elthamwildcats.net.au.

Beginner courses are run by accredited educators and referees with tenure and experience. These educators, run a 5-week program that teaches the participants the basic rules of the game (violations, fouls, timing rules), mechanics (where to stand, areas of responsibility), and general techniques of officiating.

The participant will then run alongside a qualified referee on junior basketball games who will guide them through applying their learnings and gaining independence. Once qualified, the learning doesn’t stop there. Educators continue to provide feedback and support to the officials as they get more games under their belt. The Wildcats are proud to have had many of our referees appear on state, national and international stages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Successful applicants will be provided a maximum of 14 weeks to display competency in officiating on junior games. This includes 5 weeks of theory sessions.

The course is run by the C-Grade Convenor group, longstanding qualified referee coaches who have been taught how to run these specific sessions. Not only will the run the theory program, but will also be in attendance on the weekend during your games provided you instruction during interval of play and between games. They will also be the ones to pass you when you are ready.

Your learning is never over. Successful participants of the course will be provided with a striped shirt and will generally continue to officiate the younger age groups. Roving Referee Coaches will continue to give you and all other officials guidance. Specific Referee Coaches labelled ‘Rookie Development’ will specifically check on you during the first 6 months post your qualification.