Rookie Referees

[Corndog89]

Originally posted by Oz Referee
Next weekend I will be presenting a theory course for new referees. It is aimed at people with basic knowledge of the rules of basketball, but with no officiating experience. Some of them will be aged from 14, but the majority will be 17 - 21.

I have course material to present, but was wondering what tips/suggestions people here would make. For instance, what didn't you get told that would have helped you right from the start? What misconceptions did you have about refereeing when you started?

Any help would be great.

Cheers

Duane

How long does this course last? It sounds like only a few hours at most. I ask because if 12 years teaching experience has taught me anything its that students stop listening at some point before you're ready for them to, even if they're interested and enthused. With that in mind, pick out the 4-5 or so things you think are most important, and focus on those. Billy Mac's 29 most misunderstood basketball rules are great--I'm printing and keeping those for my own and my association's use--but there's way, way too much there for teenagers with no officiating experience. KEEP IT SIMPLE AND BASIC, especially since it sounds like there will be no on-court time ("theory course").

If the course is over a matter days, i.e., multiple sessions, build on what you taught in the previous sessions, but always with focus on the basics. You have to keep their interest to succeed.

Good luck...let us know how it turns out and what worked for you.