In November 2024, Bangkok served as the home for the future of wheelchair basketball officiating as IWBF hosted the U30 Potential Referee Clinic, an initiative designed to inspire and nurture the next generation of officials. This intensive programme, held alongside the U23 Asia Oceania Championships, brought together 23 aspiring referees under the age of 30 from 14 nations across all four IWBF zones, creating a dynamic environment for learning, growth, and collaboration.
A Unique Opportunity for Young Talent
The U30 Potential Referee Clinic provided a comprehensive platform for young referees to develop their skills through a blend of classroom-based workshops, practical on-court training, and real-time feedback. Participants had the rare opportunity to officiate friendly games under the guidance of experienced international referee instructors, who offered invaluable insights into mechanics, rule application, and decision-making.
Participants hailed from diverse regions, including Central and South America (Guatemala, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Colombia), Central Africa (Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda), Asia (Malaysia, Taiwan, and Thailand), and Europe (Bulgaria, Israel, and Montenegro). This diversity not only enriched the learning experience but also fostered a strong sense of global community among the attendees.
With a focus on communication, teamwork, and the fundamentals of officiating, the program emphasized the importance of understanding the nuances of wheelchair basketball while building the confidence and competence of these young officials.
Reaching New Heights
Thanks to the support of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), this clinic achieved record participation, enabling referees from developing countries to join and benefit from this transformative experience. For many participants, it was a chance not only to refine their officiating techniques but also to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds, fostering a global network of future leaders in the sport.
“The U30 Clinic was an incredible experience. I learned so much from the hands-on training and the feedback from the instructors. It’s given me the confidence to take the next step in my officiating journey.”
Collaborative Effort and Support
The success of the U30 Potential Referee Clinic would not have been possible without the dedication and commitment of the instructors, organizers, and volunteers. IWBF extends its gratitude to the Sport Association Wheelchair Basketball Thailand and the Asia Oceania Zone for their invaluable support in hosting the clinic and providing the necessary resources to make it a success.
The clinic also integrated practical activities such as wheelchair handling, classification system training, and officiating friendly games. Participants worked closely with 26 international instructors, learning advanced techniques and gaining insights into maintaining high standards of officiating on a global level.
This clinic is part of IWBF’s commitment to investing in the future of wheelchair basketball officiating by empowering young referees to contribute to the growth and sustainability of the sport. By providing opportunities for education and practical experience, IWBF is hoping to create clear and consistent, high-quality officiating standards that will ensure the sport’s continued evolution on a global stage.
Looking Ahead
The U30 Potential Referee Clinic aims to help cultivate a sustainable pipeline of skilled officials. As these young referees return to their respective countries, they carry with them the tools, knowledge, and inspiration to make a lasting impact on the sport.
IWBF looks forward to continuing its efforts to support the development of wheelchair basketball officiating through similar programs and initiatives, ensuring that the future of the sport remains in capable hands.
