OFFICIALS CODES OF CONDUCT

1. Interpret rules and regulations fairly and to match the skill level and

the needs of the participants.

Whilst many requirements of rules are for the safety of those involved in

basketball and should never be compromised , others allow flexibility.

The age and skills level of the players involved should be taken into

account when interpreting rules. As long as you are consistent in

interpreting rules and communicate before a game how you intend to

interpret the rule, players and the game should benefit. Use common

sense to ensure that the “spirit of the game” is not lost by overcalling

technical violations.

 

2. Compliment both teams on their efforts.

You should make an effort to congratulate both sides at the end of a

game, not just the winning side. If there has been a problem during the

game, by all means raise it, but do so in a constructive manner so that

players may learn from your experience and guidance.

 

3. Be consistent, objective and courteous in calling all infractions.

Objectivity is the single most important characteristic of a good official.

It can sometimes be tempting to be easier –or harder, so that you appear

to be objective - on a team that you have a connection with. It is also

easy to be harder on their opponents or on a team which you believe is

not playing the game in the proper spirit or with which you may have had

a bad experience in the past. You must resist this temptation. Even when

you call an infraction, you must do so in a courteous manner.

 

4. Promote fair play and appropriate sporting behaviour.

Use every opportunity you have to communicate the message that

basketball is about fair play, not to be marred by poor behaviour.

Condemn the deliberate foul as being unsportsmanlike. If you see an act

of good sportsmanship, applaud it.

 

5. Publicly encourage rule changes.

Officials are in a unique position to judge how rules work and their effect

on the game. You should use that position to promote change where you

can see a positive benefit to participants’ enjoyment of the game from a

change.

 

6. Ensure that both on and off the court your behaviour is consistent

with the principles of good sportsmanship.

Just as you are entitled to the respect of players, they are entitled to

expect that you will act honestly and with integrity. Lead by example -

actions speak louder than words. If your standards are down, players and

others involved in the sport will see that as a signal that it is acceptable

for them to lower their standards.

 

7. Keep your knowledge current.

Make a personal commitment to keep yourself informed of sound

officiating principles and the principles of growth and development of

children. Always attend training programs when they are available, to

ensure that your knowledge is current and that your skills are always

improving. Read all information that is available to make sure that you

don’t miss innovations such as rule changes.

 

8. Help the education process in the game.

Help players learn to play the game. Make sure that players understand

rule infractions. Sometimes players dispute decisions because they do

not understand the rules correctly. If you perceive that a player hasn’t

understood a ruling, take the time when it is convenient to explain it to

them. If there is a team problem of understanding, approach the coach

and outline what the problem is and why it is a problem. Don’t feel

defensive about explaining your decisions. You are the expert on the

court and players are entitled to your constructive guidance.

 

9. Always present yourself in a way which encourages others to

respect you and your role.

In both your demeanour and appearance you should lead by example.

Always wear the appropriate uniform and make sure that it is neat and

clean. Just as players are expected to be properly attired, so should you

be. If you present yourself in a sloppy manner it sends a signal that you

may be sloppy in your tasks as an official.

 

10. Always respect the use of facilities and equipment provided.

Facilities and equipment cost money and will only function properly if

kept in good order. Ensure that you do not abuse anything provided for

use. Discourage players from engaging in dangerous practices such as

hanging off hoops or “slam dunking”. Quite properly, these practices are

banned in most venues. Not only can equipment be damaged but also

serious injury can occur.