Expert: Bret Temple - 12/16/2008

Question
I want to know what i need to do to become a ref.Please help. I leave in NYC but would travel were the game takes me.

Answer
Hi Eli,

It depends on what level of basketball you wish to officiate. If your looking at officiating at the local Parks and Recreation, there is no certification required normally. Just walk into the gym's office, and let them know your interested. I would familiarize yourself with the general rules of basketball. You don't need to be a professional at the Park and REC level, although the more you know about the game the better it is for you. You might want to purchase a 2008-2009 high school basketball rule book. High School rules is what most youth leagues follow. The park will probably start you off doing the lowest age division, and then as you get better and more comfortable, you work your way up. If your interested in doing High School, then you have to go to your local Public School district and find out who is in charge of athletics. They will get your certified to do high school games. If your interested in becoming a professional official, then you have to do many years of High School, then Jr. College, and work your way from Division 3 to Division 1 College then into the NBA "D" League. There are many referee camps that I would recommend you attend one of them if your looking to officiate at a high level. I hope that helps.