Andrew Pace
If you're looking to become a basketball referee in Colorado, there are a few steps you should follow. First, search for a basketball referee association in your area, as they will likely be able to provide you with preseason training and put you in touch with a referee assigner. You can also try contacting your state high school league, as they may be able to connect you with an assigner as well. To prepare for your new role, you should purchase the necessary equipment, including a referee shirt, black shorts and pants, whistles, and something to help you keep track of jump balls, such as a wristband. Additionally, studying hand signals and referee positioning is crucial, as is familiarising yourself with the rules of the game. To get started, you can consider taking a referee course, such as the Colorado First Time Referee Course, which offers a combination of online modules and in-person training. Alternatively, if you're looking for a more flexible option, the Digital Referee License is an online-only course that allows individuals to step in as referees when needed.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Course Type | First Time Referee Course, Course for Lapsed Officials and Approved Individuals, Digital Referee License |
| Course Duration | Six hours of online modules and a 3.5-hour in-person training session (First Time Referee Course), Four hours (Digital Referee License) |
| Course Cost | $100 (First Time Referee Course and Course for Lapsed Officials and Approved Individuals), $40 (Digital Referee License) |
| Course Requirements | Age 13 and older (First Time Referee Course), Age 17 and older (Digital Referee License), Age 18 and older (Course for Lapsed Officials and Approved Individuals) |
| Uniform | Ref shirt, black shorts, black pants, whistles, and something to keep track of jump balls (e.g., wristband or pocket item) |
| Additional Preparation | Read the NFHS basketball rules, learn positioning and hand signals (videos available on YouTube) |
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What You'll Learn
Contact your local basketball referee association
Contacting your local basketball referee association is a great first step to becoming a basketball referee in Colorado. In Colorado, the relevant association is the CABO (Colorado Basketball Officials). CABO is committed to recruiting and training the next generation of basketball officials, with a focus on increasing pay and professionalism. They aim to restore respect to game officials and recognize them as authorities.
You can contact CABO to enquire about joining their team of officials. They may be able to provide you with information on the necessary training and any preseason training opportunities. It is beneficial to make contact with your local association as they can guide you on the specific requirements and next steps to becoming a referee in your area.
Additionally, you can try contacting your state high school league to find a referee assigner in your area. They may be able to put you in touch with an assigner who can provide you with training. This training will help prepare you for the role and may include guidance on purchasing the necessary equipment and learning the required hand signals.
It is worth noting that the timing of your enquiry may impact the availability of training programs, as preseason training may already be completed. However, don't let that deter you from reaching out and making contact with the relevant associations. They may still be able to provide valuable information and guidance on becoming a basketball referee in Colorado.
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Complete a referee course
To become a basketball referee in Colorado, you will need to complete a referee course. This will ensure you are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to officiate basketball games. Here is a step-by-step guide to completing a referee course:
Identify the Relevant Referee Course
Firstly, you need to determine which referee course is suitable for your needs and situation. Colorado offers a few options for referee courses, including the Colorado First Time Referee Course and the Digital Referee License course. The Colorado First Time Referee Course is a comprehensive program that combines online modules with in-person training sessions. It is designed for individuals aged 13 and older and offers advancement and premium pay options. On the other hand, the Digital Referee License course is an online-only option for individuals aged 17 and older who want to address the referee shortage. This course is ideal for coaches, parents, college students, or those with flexible schedules. It does not include advancement or premium pay tiers.
Enrol in the Chosen Course
Once you have decided on the referee course that aligns with your goals, the next step is to enrol and register for the course. You can do this by visiting the official websites of organizations such as the Colorado Soccer Association or contacting relevant authorities like the referee assigner in your area or the state high school league. They will provide you with the necessary information and steps to enrol in the chosen referee course.
Complete the Course Requirements
After enrolling, dedicate yourself to fulfilling the requirements of the referee course. For the Colorado First Time Referee Course, you will need to complete six hours of online modules and a 3.5-hour in-person training session. The online modules provide flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace, while the in-person session offers hands-on experience and practical training. Similarly, the Digital Referee License course requires you to complete four hours of online education. Ensure that you actively participate, absorb the content, and meet any specified requirements to successfully complete the course.
Purchase Necessary Equipment
In addition to completing the educational components of the referee course, you may need to purchase specific equipment. This typically includes a uniform kit, which consists of a referee shirt, black shorts, and black pants. You will also need to acquire whistles and any other accessories required during games, such as items to help you keep track of jump balls (wristbands or pocket items). Some organizations may offer starter kits for new referees at discounted prices, so keep an eye out for those.
Prepare for On-the-Job Training
Completing the referee course will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills to become a basketball referee. However, the learning doesn't stop there. Once you have completed the course, you will be prepared for on-the-job training and mentorship. You will be assigned to games where you can put your knowledge into practice under the guidance of more experienced referees or assigners. This practical experience will further enhance your skills and confidence as a basketball referee.
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Purchase a referee uniform
To purchase a referee uniform, you can refer to websites such as Purchase Officials, which offers basketball referee shirts with easy returns and exchanges. They provide a 30-day window for returns and refunds, with responsive staff available to answer any queries. Additionally, they offer Body Flex Material basketball referee V-neck shirts, with options for both men and women.
Gerry Davis Sports is another option, catering to amateur basketball officials who want to look and feel professional. They claim to be the leader in officiating apparel, guaranteeing a professional look for every game.
When purchasing referee uniforms, it is important to be aware of the return policies. Some websites, like Purchase Officials, allow returns for up to 30 days after receiving the items, but certain items like undergarments and compression garments cannot be returned unless there is a manufacturer's defect. Shoes, once worn outside or on the court, also generally cannot be returned.
The Referee Store is another online retailer that offers a wide range of pro-quality basketball referee shirts, also providing free returns and exchanges.
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Learn hand signals and positioning
To become an effective basketball referee, you need to master hand signals and positioning on the court. Hand signals are crucial for communicating calls to players, coaches, and spectators. Here's a detailed guide to help you learn and understand the various hand signals and their meanings:
When a violation occurs, blow your whistle and raise an open hand to signal a dead ball. This is followed by a specific violation signal. For instance, when a player illegally moves their foot or feet, resulting in a travelling violation, put both arms in front of your face and move them in a circular motion. To indicate a carrying violation, use one hand and flip it over from palm up to palm down several times.
When a foul occurs, blow the whistle and raise a closed hand to indicate a foul. Then, follow up by signalling the type of foul. For a blocking foul, place both hands on your hips. On the other hand, if it's a charging foul, indicating that the defensive player was in a legal guarding position, you would simply signal the type of foul without raising a closed fist. After signalling the foul, proceed to the scorer's table to inform the scorekeeper of the call and reinforce it with the appropriate signal.
It's important to note that certain violations have distinct signals. For instance, when a player is in the paint, closest to the basket, for more than three seconds, point three fingers down at your side and then swipe your hand back and forth. Similarly, for a five-second violation, raise your hand with five fingers in the air. These signals ensure that everyone involved in the game understands the call being made.
Additionally, positioning is crucial for a referee. You need to be in a position to observe the game and make accurate calls. Move around the court to get different angles and perspectives, ensuring you have a clear view of the action. Remember, good positioning not only helps you make the right calls but also ensures that you are respected as an official.
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Find a referee assigner
To find a referee assigner in your area, start by contacting your state's high school basketball league. Although you won't be refereeing high school games right away, they may be able to put you in touch with an assigner who can provide training.
Before you begin, there are a few things you should do to prepare:
- Familiarise yourself with the rules of the game by buying and reading the NFHS basketball rule book.
- Assemble the necessary equipment, including a referee shirt, black shorts and trousers, a couple of whistles, and something to keep track of jump balls (either a wristband or pocket device).
- Learn the hand signals used by referees during games, such as the signals for different types of fouls and violations.
- Understand the basics of referee positioning on the court. The referee who does not throw the opening tip goes to the baseline of the team with possession and is considered the "lead." The referee who threw the opening tip is the "trail," and their positions switch when play moves in the opposite direction.
It's worth noting that being in good physical shape is important for referees, as it enables them to keep up with the teams and effectively manage the game. Additionally, don't be afraid to seek guidance from experienced coaches or referees, as they can provide valuable insights and advice.
While preseason training may have already concluded, don't hesitate to reach out to your local basketball referee association or assigner. They may still be able to provide you with valuable information and opportunities to get started on your path to becoming a basketball referee in Colorado.
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Frequently asked questions
You can become a basketball referee in Colorado by joining the Colorado Basketball Network's CABO. This program is focused on recruiting and training the next generation of basketball officials, providing pay, support, and development opportunities.
The requirements to become a basketball referee in Colorado include completing a referee training course, purchasing the necessary equipment, and understanding the rules and hand signals. You must be 13 years or older to begin the Colorado First Time Referee Course, which includes six hours of online modules and a 3.5-hour in-person training session.
The salary of a basketball referee in Colorado can vary. While it is possible to make good money, it may not always be a premium-paying job. The pay depends on various factors, including experience, level of play, and the organization hiring the referee.
