Becoming an Official

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.