Purpose #
Our referee development philosophy provides a foundation for how we support, train, and nurture referees across all levels at Blue Mountains Basketball. It reflects our values, guides our expectations, and shapes the culture we want to build around officiating. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance to senior games, this philosophy is designed to help you grow with confidence, capability, and community.
Our Vision #
To foster confident, skilled, and respected referees by creating a supportive, realistic, and positive learning environment for all officials.
Core Pillars #
1. Confidence Through Experience #
Referees develop best through hands-on, real-game experience. We’re committed to providing meaningful opportunities that build decision-making, positioning, and communication under realistic conditions.
- Avoiding overstaffed courts to promote individual accountability
- Ensuring referees are in the right positions to learn their roles
- Offering structured game-day support and coaching
- Reinforcing that confidence comes from doing, reflecting, and improving
2. Communication as a Key Skill #
Great referees communicate clearly, calmly, and respectfully — with their voice just as much as their whistle.
- Encouraging assertive but approachable verbal communication
- Teaching referees how to manage conflict and earn respect
- Supporting effective teamwork between officials
- Helping referees develop presence without aggression
3. Safe & Supportive Environments #
Everyone makes mistakes. We’re creating a culture where referees feel safe to learn, grow, and make errors without fear of criticism or hostility.
- Normalising mistakes as a key part of development
- Expecting respectful behaviour from coaches, parents, and players
- Supporting referees when challenges arise
- Promoting a zero-tolerance approach to abuse or intimidation
4. Individual Growth & Tailored Development #
Every referee learns at a different pace. We support referees with personalised guidance and regular feedback suited to their goals and experience.
- Providing individual development plans and mentoring
- Matching games to skill level and growth areas
- Offering opportunities to shadow, learn, and reflect
- Encouraging open dialogue about challenges and goals
5. Pathways for Progression #
While our immediate focus is on building capable junior referees, we provide clear and supported pathways for those who wish to move into senior games or pursue officiating beyond the local level.
- Identifying emerging talent and offering leadership opportunities
- Supporting access to accreditation and external training
- Connecting referees with regional and state-level experiences
- Encouraging long-term involvement in the officiating community
Referee Expectations #
- Be prepared: know your role and the rules, and come ready to learn
- Be professional: act with integrity and respect on and off the court
- Be focused: stay engaged in the game, your role, and your partner
- Be open to feedback: reflect on your performance and ask for support
- Be a team player: support your fellow referees and work as a unit
Behaviour and Conduct Expectations #
Our referees are role models and key contributors to our club culture. We expect all referees to:
- Uphold Basketball NSW and Basketball Australia Codes of Conduct
- Show respect to all players, coaches, spectators, and officials
- Stay composed and professional, even in challenging situations
- Avoid negative talk about calls, coaches, or other referees
- Report unsafe or inappropriate behaviour when needed
- Maintain a clean and presentable appearance when officiating
Referee’s Pledge #
As a referee with Blue Mountains Basketball, I pledge to:
- Approach every game with focus, fairness, and professionalism
- Communicate clearly and respectfully with players, coaches, and peers
- Accept mistakes as learning opportunities and strive for improvement
- Support my fellow referees and contribute to a positive officiating culture
- Represent our club with pride, integrity, and accountability
- Be open to feedback and committed to my ongoing development
Supported Referees Are Better Referees #
We’re committed to supporting our referees with:
- On-site mentoring and constructive game-day coaching
- Access to Basketball Australia’s referee accreditation pathway
- Individual development planning and regular feedback
- A culture of respect, encouragement, and shared learning
Final Word #
At Blue Mountains Basketball, refereeing isn’t just about enforcing the rules — it’s about building confidence, learning life skills, and being part of something bigger. Together, we’re creating an environment where referees grow, thrive, and love the game.
Let’s raise the bar — and support each other every step of the way.
