Become a Referee!!
How do I become a referee?
The KHSAA is ALWAYS looking for men and women who want to return something to their school and community by becoming a licensed athletic official. Candidates should be at least 18 years old, a high school graduate, in good physical condition, and able to make decisions on their feet and stick to them.
To become an official, you'll need to fill out an application, pay a licensing fee, and take an open-book rules test. Once you are licensed, you'll need to attend annual rules meeting that will introduce you to the latest rule changes and interpretations and become an active member of a local officials' association
If you would like to become a referee the first step that you should take is contacting the Kentucky High School Athletic Association(KHSAA). The KHSAA will guide you through the proper procedures to get you registered as an official. You will then be responsible to join your local basketball association who is responsible for conducting courses for beginning referees. The way the system operates for referee beginner courses varies from association to association.
It is recommended that referees be a minimum of 18 years old. However,there are youth leagues for referees from 14 years to 16 years of age – only using them in elementary school competitions.
Basically the following procedure is best to follow;
1. Establish which association you would intend to officiate with, once you have completed the registration process. (Usually this is the venue nearest to your home / work)
2. Make contact with the Assigning Secretary or president of the local association.
3. Inform the Assigning Secretary or president of the local association of your desire to take up officiating and they will be able to accommodate your request. Some associations conduct courses at set times during the year, others arrange for a school to be conducted when they have enough people who have registered an interest with them.
4. You generally meet one night a week for six to eight weeks (depending on associations) plus practical game experience.
5. On completion of the course the official will be considered a “trainee” or “apprentice” referee and will work with veteran officials for a number of games until evaluated.
All you need is a whistle, rule book and a readiness to learn!
Who governs basketball referees?
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA)
Who are the Officials Associations?
All referees much be registered with the KHSAA and join their local association. There are 16 local associations (Regions). Click "Local Associations" to go to a link for the Assigning Secretaries of each local association. They can direct you to the proper association president.
Who do I contact for more information?
Basketball is a great sport and whether you are a referee, player, coach or spectator, there is something in the game for you! Being involved in basketball officiating also brings the added incentive of being financially rewarded for your time and commitment! Refereeing is challenging but at whichever level you participate, you will find it rewarding!
For further information please contact us for help.