Referees and bench officials are essential to keeping our game fair, safe, and enjoyable for everyone. At South Canterbury Basketball, we’re committed to supporting you with the training, tools, and opportunities you need to develop your skills and confidence, whether you’re just starting out or aiming for higher-level appointments. We offer introductory referee courses and watch this space for higher-level offerings soon.
GameDay & BBNZ Official Resources
All our officials have access to Basketball New Zealand’s resources and training modules. These include rule updates, mechanics videos, and referee pathways to guide your development. Through our GameDay portal, you can:
- View and manage your officiating assignments.
- Track your games and availability.
- Access game rules, manuals, and resources in one place.
Referee Development Pathway
Here is what we value and expect from our officials:
- Professionalism & Respect – Lead by example on and off the court. Your decisions should be fair, clear, and made with confidence.
- Rule Knowledge – Keep your understanding of the rules current, including BBNZ and FIBA updates.
- Communication – Be approachable, explain calls when appropriate, and work with coaches to maintain a positive game environment.
- Teamwork – Whether you’re with a partner referee or a bench crew, supporting each other is key to a smooth game.
- Continual Learning – Attend SCBA and BBNZ clinics, seek feedback, and practice mechanics and positioning.
Support for New Officials
Starting out? We’ll pair you with an experienced mentor to guide you through your first games and help you build confidence on the whistle or at the bench. We also offer junior referee programmes, where younger officials can learn in a safe, supportive environment and progress at their own pace.
https://nz.basketball/get-involved/officials-hub/referee-resources/