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Basketball Instruction/Becoming an Official

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Expert: - 5/16/2008


Question
I want to become an official.  I played basketball in high school and am graduating this June in California.  I was wondering how old you need to be to become an official, I am 17

Answer
Hi Ryan,

I started officiating at 15 years old at a local Park & Rec center. You are old enough. Find out what local youth basketball programs you have in your area, and contact whomever is in charge and let them know your interested in officiating. Go out and buy a high school basketball rules book and make sure you know all the rules. Knowing the rules of basketball is half the battle. You also have to have the type of personality that can work well under pressure, take criticism, get yelled at by coaches and fans and be able to take it without losing your own temper. Court management is extremely important. I'm sure if you have played basketball you know what I'm talking about. Officiating is a lot of fun and it allows you to stay in the game, without playing. Especially once you start getting older like me!!!  :)  Good luck.

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Volunteer

Bret Temple

Expertise

My expertise is in the art of Officiating Basketball and I can answer questions pertaining to basketball rules; youth level through CIF High School, NCAA college and NBA rules as well. I can either help define a specific rule for you, or interpret a specific rule to clarify how other officials and I view and call the game.

Experience

I have been a Basketball Official now for over 19 years, officiating at all levels. I have attended numerous training camps throughout the years in an attempt to constantly become a better official. I have been evaluated by top Officiating organizations and I've had the honor of being selected to officiate at the highest levels including former Division 1 College and NBA players.

Organizations
NASO (National Association of Sports Officials) CBOA (California Basketball Officials Association)

Education/Credentials
El Sorrino Officials Association Accreditation CIF Certified(California Interscholastic Federation) WCPBL(West Coast Professional Baskeball League) The NBA Developmental League training

Past/Present Clients
Los Angeles City Parks and Recreation, Calabasas Basketball League, Calabasas Semi-Pro Men's League, AYBA California Interscholatic Federation, ARC League , (WCPBL)West Coast Professional Basketball League, Gary Grant Youth Basketball Program

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