Warragul Basketball Association
powered by TidyHQReferees
Referees
Referees
Referees are the backbone of every game — ensuring basketball is played safely, fairly, and in the spirit of the sport. Find out how to get involved.
WBA Officials ProgramReferee Support
Our referees are supported by dedicated officials who are committed to developing and mentoring officials at every level of the game.
referees@warragulbasketball.org.au
refereedevelopment@warragulbasketball.org.au
The RoleWhat Does a Referee Do?
Most sports have a referee or umpire whose role is to ensure the game is played according to the rules. The role of the basketball referee is exactly this — to ensure the game is played safely and fairly.
The referee enforces the rules of the game and, during a game, will make hundreds of decisions — determining when a violation or foul occurs and then stopping the game to issue the correct penalty. Often, the decision is "no call" because there was no violation or foul, but the referee must constantly watch the play. Unlike players (who are likely to be substituted for rests), referees are on-court for the whole game, working together to do the best job possible. There are two referees in the majority of games, and three in higher-level games. It's not easy — but it can be incredibly rewarding!
Before the Game
Referees are encouraged to arrive at least 10 minutes before tip-off to check that:
- Both teams have completed the scoresheet and players are in the correct uniform
- All equipment is ready (ring height, ball size etc.)
- Scorers (and statisticians, if applicable) are present and ready
During the Game
The referee ensures the game is played according to the rules, including:
- Stopping play for violations, fouls, time-outs, and substitutions
- Applying any local competition timing or rule variations
- Working as a team with the second (and third) referee on court
After the Game
At the conclusion of each game, the referee is responsible for checking the scoresheet and signing off that the game was completed correctly. Whether a paper scoresheet or a tablet/computer is used, the score must be verified and recorded accurately.
Local Rules
Local competitions often vary timing rules and other conditions to best fit the number of games being played. Referees are expected to confirm and apply the specific rules in use for each competition they officiate in.
Get InvolvedWhy Referee?
There are lots of great reasons why people get involved in refereeing. Some of the most common ones are below — and some referees are interested only in helping at their local association, while others may aspire to state, national, or even international competition. The pathway exists so that everyone can participate at the level that suits their skill and interest.
Basketball Victoria InitiativeGreen Whistle Program
The Green Whistle initiative demonstrates Basketball Victoria's commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and respectful environment for everyone in our basketball community — especially our young referees. This program supports referees under 18 by raising awareness of their age, fostering greater empathy and respect from players, coaches, and spectators.
- Protects referees under 18 and supports our commitment to the Victorian Child Safe Standards
- Builds respect and understanding towards young officials
- Encourages positive sideline behaviour, creating a welcoming and supportive environment where our under-18 referees can learn, develop, and enjoy the game
- Referees under 18 use a green whistle during games
- Participating associations promote the initiative to their community via various communication channels
- Referee Supervisors, Referee Coaches, and Venue Supervisors monitor sideline behaviour and offer support as required
- The initiative aligns with Basketball Victoria's Child Safeguarding policy
Start Your JourneyBecoming a Referee
Refereeing provides you with an opportunity to be rewarded for your commitment to the game, engage at times that suit your work or lifestyle, be physically active, meet new people, make new friends, and share many great experiences.
As you can see in the pathway below, refereeing is a journey that can take you all the way to the WNBL, NBL, and even the Olympics! If you are interested in becoming a referee, get in touch with Kate Collins and we can best determine the association(s) most relevant to you.
Reach out to Kate directly to express your interest in becoming a referee. She'll guide you through the next steps and connect you with the right association.
📧 kate.collins@warragulbasketball.org.au
Officiate at Every LevelReferee Pathway
The referee pathway takes officials from their first game all the way to the world stage. Here's how the journey unfolds:
Trainee
The average age of a trainee is 14 years old. Most associations run beginner schools throughout the year — a 12-week course with a theory component and an on-court component where the trainee is supported by a mentor.
C Grade
Once a referee successfully completes their trainee course, they become a 'C' Grade referee. Most 'C' referees remain at this level for 6–12 months depending on their confidence and execution, primarily refereeing junior domestic competitions.
B Grade
A 'B' Grade referee is more likely to officiate senior games of basketball. Over the next year or two, those who show an aptitude for officiating will be identified for an 'A' Grade school.
A Grade
An 'A' Grade school is run by a senior local educator and covers Mechanics, Presentation, Calling of the Game, Communication, and Technical Control. Receiving your 'A' grade is the highest honour an official can receive from their local association.
Level 1
The local association nominates their most talented, committed referees. Candidates must be assessed by Basketball Victoria, complete a theory and fitness test, and attend an action day. Successful referees join the Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL) or Country Basketball League (CBL) panels.
Level 2
To be considered for Level 2, the referee must meet all requirements of the VJBL/CBL and be assessed as suitable to move into the Senior State League (Big V).
Level 3
A Level 3 referee is identified as suitable to referee the strongest divisions within Big V. A select few Level 3 referees will be considered for the most elite state competition, NBL1 — a very high honour.
Level 4 — NBL / WNBL
Referees identified by Basketball Australia (BA) and the National Basketball League (NBL) to officiate in their respective national competitions — the Women's National Basketball League (WNBL) and the NBL — are accredited as Level 4 officials.
Level 5 — International / Olympics
Referees can be nominated by Basketball Australia to be selected by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) to referee internationally — in competitions such as the Olympics and World Championships. These referees are awarded Level 5 accreditation.
