IWBF hosted a series of technical clinics in Bangkok,Thailand, from November 20 to 24, 2024, bringing together current and future officials to advance the standards of officiating in wheelchair basketball. Three clinics—an International Referee Instructor Clinic, an International Classifier Instructor Clinic, and a U30 Potential Referee Clinic—were held alongside the U23 Asia Oceania Championships. The clinics featured classroom workshops, practical sessions, and observation opportunities. Nearly 70 participants from around the globe volunteered their time to refine their skills and contribute to the sport.
International Referee Instructor Clinic
This Referee Instructor Clinic aimed to unify and elevate the quality of referee instruction across all IWBF zones. Attended by 26instructors from 19 countries, including 7 new instructors, the sessions focused on teaching methodologies, officiating best practices, and strategies for consistent rule application worldwide.
International Classifier Instructor Clinic
Representing 12 nations across all four zones, participants of the International Classifier Instructor Clinic focused on understanding the changes to and implementing the new 2025 IPC Classification Code, as well as the training of future classifiers. Classroom discussions and practical observations enhanced their ability to standardise classification training and application across zones, ensuring alignment with global standards.
U30 Potential National Referee Clinic
he U30 Potential National Referee Clinic targeted the next generation of referees, welcoming 23 aspiring officials under the age of 30.The programme emphasised rule comprehension, communication, and teamwork through interactive classroom sessions and on-court training. Participants officiated friendly games under the guidance of international referee instructors, gaining invaluable real-time feedback on their mechanics and decision-making.
Unified Development Across Clinics
The simultaneous running of these three clinics fostered a collaborative atmosphere, allowing participants to network across disciplines and regions. The integration of international referee and classifier instructors with emerging referees highlighted IWBF's commitment to nurturing a sustainable pipeline of skilled officials and underscored the importance of community within the wheelchair basketball world. From combined workshops on officiating strategies to evening networking events, participants left with not only enhanced skills but also stronger connections to peers worldwide.
Looking Ahead
The IWBF World Clinics in Bangkok are part of IWBF's strategy to ensure the growth and sustainability of wheelchair basketball officiating. By investing in both seasoned instructors and emerging talent, IWBF aims to foster consistent, high-quality officiating that will drive the sport's continued evolution on a global scale. The U30 Potential Referee Clinic and the Instructor Classifier Clinic were made possible thanks to funding from the International Paralympic Committee, especially in providing invaluable opportunities to aspiring U30 referees from developing countries. IWBF extends their thanks to the Sports Association Wheelchair Basketball Thailand and the Asia Oceania Zone for their support in hosting these impactful clinics.
