How to Become a Recreational Basketball Referee

Recreational league basketball gives every player a chance to play and gain experience.

Recreational basketball leagues give players, coaches and officials of all ages and experience time on the court to play and grow. The rules of recreational league basketball normally follow the state's high school basketball regulations with only a few variations. The high school athletic association in your state and your local library can provide all the information you need to learn the rules of the game. Once you have learned the rules you can focus your studies on the local regulations and become a recreational basketball referee.

Instructions

1. Contact referee or sports officiating associations such as the National Association of Sports Officials, or the local chapters of such associations. Sign up for membership and pay the required dues. These associations offer up-to-date training, insurance and legal representation to referees.

2. Obtain study materials from the officiating association and your local library. Learn every facet of the game of basketball, including the local rules and regulations.

3. Contact your state's High School Athletic Association. Request an application for the position of basketball official.

4. Study the materials sent to you by the state's High School Athletic Association. Fill out the application and send it to the association. Specify your wish to work as a recreational department referee.

5. Take and pass the qualification exam to become certified to be a basketball official. Make copies of your certification and store the original in a safe place.

6. Contact the recreation department to have your name added to the roster of basketball officials. Officiate any game the recreation department or High School Athletic Association assigns you to work. Keep a log of every game you work, including any mishaps or negative scenes.

7. Renew your certification as required by your state's regulations. Keep a current copy of the high school and rec department game regulations on hand for regular study.

References

• Become a Referee School in Philadelphia; Becoming a Basketball Official; Bill Knight; 2009
• National Association of Sports Officials; Introduction; Referee Enterprises, Inc.; 2011