Kristian Ferrell
Basketball officiating is a great way to stay active and closely involved with the game. If you're interested in refereeing AAU basketball, there are a few things to keep in mind. AAU, or the Amateur Athletic Union, has been around since 1888 and offers various sports programs for participants of all ages. To become a referee for AAU basketball, you'll need to understand the rules of the game and complete the necessary training and certification, which can vary from state to state. You can train yourself with rulebooks and manuals, but joining a local officials association can provide valuable lectures, demonstrations, and exercises. Additionally, you should be prepared to deal with different types of people and situations, as officiating comes with its own set of challenges and interactions. With the right combination of knowledge, training, and people skills, you can succeed in refereeing AAU basketball and contribute to the game while staying active.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Training | Training and certification vary from state to state. Some states offer online training and testing, while others require registration with a local association for in-person training and testing. |
| Uniform | Polished black athletic shoes, black socks, black beltless slacks, and a striped V-neck shirt with no collar. |
| Work schedule | Basketball referees can work year-round in school, club, AAU, and amateur basketball games, offering flexibility in scheduling. |
| Earnings | Game fees depend on the players' age group, competitive level, and location, ranging from $20 to $150 per game. Referees can increase their income by working at different levels and during weekend tournaments. |
| Work challenges | Dealing with difficult crowds and accepting outcomes gracefully, regardless of winning or losing. |
| Personal development | Learning to interact with various personality types, improving communication skills, and developing emotional intelligence. |
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What You'll Learn
Referee training and certification
The process of becoming a basketball referee varies depending on your location. In the US, basketball referee training and certification are done on a state-by-state basis. This means that the process of becoming a referee will differ depending on the state in which you reside. Some states provide all of the training and testing online, while others require in-person registration with a local association or chapter.
If your state offers online training and testing, you will typically need to complete an application and submit a registration payment. After that, you will receive study materials and instructions on how to take an online test to demonstrate your understanding of the rules.
On the other hand, if your state requires in-person registration, you will need to register with a local association or chapter. Here, you will receive individual training and testing from veteran basketball officials in your area. These officials will instruct you on both the written and unwritten rules of basketball as you prepare to become a referee.
In addition to state-specific requirements, there are some general steps you can take to become a basketball referee. It is recommended to join a local officials' association, which often provides lectures, demonstrations, and exercises to prepare you for officiating. These associations may also have requirements such as attendance at meetings, written tests, payment of fees, and specific dress codes.
To officiate AAU basketball specifically, you will need to follow the same process as outlined above for becoming a basketball referee. AAU basketball refers to competitive or club basketball, and officials can work with these teams year-round. It is important to note that many AAU teams and organizations are not officially affiliated with the AAU, so you may need to do some research to find the right opportunities.
Lastly, it is important to consider the physical and time commitment aspects of becoming a referee. Many referees work part-time while also holding down a full-time job. Starting with youth or in-house games can be a good way to ease into officiating without needing to be in great shape. However, as one referee advises, "You are expected to be perfect and improve after that."
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Referee positioning
The person who does not throw up the opening tip goes to the baseline for whichever team ends up with possession and they are the "lead". The person who threw the opening tip is the "trail". When play goes back the other way, the trail becomes the lead and vice versa.
There are plenty of videos on YouTube about proper positioning in relation to the other referee, which is most important during games. You can also train yourself with rulebooks and manuals from the Referee Training Center, but you should also join a local officials' association where you can expect lectures, demonstrations, and exercises that will prepare you for what you’ll face.
To become a referee, you must first complete training and certification, which is done on a state-by-state basis. You can start by contacting your state high school league, which may put you in touch with a referee assigner in your area. They will be able to provide you with further training.
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Referee attire
When officiating an AAU basketball game, it is important to wear the proper referee attire. This includes a striped V-neck shirt with no collar, black socks, black beltless slacks, and polished black athletic shoes. In addition, you should also have a referee shirt, black shorts or pants, a couple of whistles, and either something to put in your pocket or on your wrist to keep track of jump balls. It is important to be able to move easily in your clothing, as referees are expected to be constantly active and closely involved with the game action.
The black slacks should ideally have either a tapered or athletic cut, with pleated or flat fronts, and western or slash pockets. As for the referee shirts, these can be short-sleeved or long-sleeved, depending on your preference and the weather. They typically have a collar and are made of breathable, moisture-wicking fabric to keep you comfortable during the game.
It is also important to have the right footwear. Black athletic shoes are the standard for referees, providing comfort and support for the duration of the game. You may also want to consider shoes specifically designed for basketball referees, which offer features such as good traction and shock absorption.
Some referees also choose to wear additional gear, such as a hat or a visor, to block out the sun and reduce glare. Protective gear like mouthguards and eye protection is also an option, especially when officiating at higher levels where the ball speed is greater.
Lastly, it is worth noting that some tournaments or leagues may have specific attire requirements, so it is always a good idea to check with the organizers beforehand to ensure you are dressed appropriately.
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Referee career path
Basketball refereeing is a great way to stay active and closely involved with the game. It also offers the opportunity to officiate nearly year-round, which can lead to a higher earning potential compared to other sports.
To become a basketball referee, you should first check the requirements for your state, as training and certification vary. Some states offer online training and testing, while others require registration with a local association for in-person instruction from veteran officials. You can also join a local officials association to access lectures, demonstrations, and exercises that will prepare you for refereeing. Additionally, you can refer to rulebooks and manuals from the Referee Training Center to familiarize yourself with the rules and positions on the court.
Many referees start at the youth level, working their way up through high school, college, and professional levels. Game fees vary based on the players' age group, competitive level, and location, ranging from $20 to $35 for youth games and $45 to $150 for competitive high school games. Referees can maximize their income by working a combination of levels and taking on weekend tournaments.
As a referee, you will need to be constantly learning and improving. You will encounter people from all walks of life, and it is your responsibility to treat everyone with respect and fairness. You should also be prepared for difficult crowds and remember that your role is to ensure the game is played fairly and that the outcome is accepted by all participants.
Lastly, remember that refereeing is a team effort. Working together with your fellow referees is crucial to ensuring a well-managed game and a positive experience for everyone involved.
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Referee resources
Training and certification to become a basketball referee vary from state to state. Some states offer online training and testing, while others require in-person registration with a local association or chapter. It is important to visit the relevant website for your state to understand the specific requirements.
To officiate AAU basketball, it is recommended to start by gaining experience in school, club, or amateur basketball. This will allow you to develop the necessary skills and understanding of the game. Additionally, officiating in these settings can provide a reliable income, allowing you to work multiple days a week and throughout the year.
To succeed as a referee, it is essential to have a strong understanding of the rules and their application in game situations. This can be achieved through studying rulebooks and manuals, as well as joining local officials' associations that offer lectures, demonstrations, and exercises. It is also beneficial to connect with other referees through online forums and communities, where you can seek advice and share experiences.
When officiating AAU basketball, it is important to be aware of the unique characteristics of this level of play. AAU basketball is often used as a catch-all term for competitive youth basketball, and the quality of teams and clubs can vary significantly. It is recommended to prioritize your development by seeking out competitive tournaments and avoiding clubs focused solely on financial gain.
Lastly, being a referee can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to stay closely connected to the game and continuously improve your skills. It is important to remember that officiating is about giving your best and accepting the outcome, learning from each experience, and striving to be better.
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Frequently asked questions
To become a referee for AAU basketball, you must first go to the website that handles high school sports in your state to find information about how to become a basketball referee. The next steps depend on your state. Some states provide all the training and testing online, while others require you to register with a local association or chapter for in-person training and testing. You can also train yourself with rulebooks and manuals from the Referee Training Center, and join a local officials association for lectures, demonstrations, and exercises.
Game fees vary widely depending on the players' age group, competitive level, and the state you officiate in. Fees range from $20-$35 for youth games and $45-$150 for competitive high school games. AAU basketball referees can work a combination of levels several days a week, including weekend tournaments, to maximize their income. A referee working youth, high school, and adult amateur games with a full schedule can make several hundred dollars per week outside their normal jobs.
To prepare physically for the role, you should ensure that you are in good shape. To prepare mentally, you should familiarize yourself with the rules of the game and the different referee positions on the court. You should also be aware that referees may be subjected to difficult crowds and be prepared to deal with them accordingly.
