This policy exists to promote a culture of respect and support for referees at all levels of competition within the Ocean Grove Breakers Basketball Club. Referees are essential to the game and must be treated with dignity, free from abuse, intimidation, or harassment.
This policy applies to all players, coaches, team managers, parents, spectators, and officials participating in any Ocean Grove Breakers domestic or representative program. It includes games, training sessions, club events, and any online interactions.
Referees are to be respected and supported, regardless of age or experience.
Abuse, intimidation, or harassment of referees will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Education around referee development is encouraged at all levels of the club.
Players, coaches, and parents are expected to model appropriate behaviour toward referees at all times.
Players Must:
Accept referee decisions without argument.
Show sportsmanship, even when disagreeing with a call.
Speak to referees only through the team captain, and only when appropriate.
Coaches Must:
Model respectful behaviour and never verbally challenge or intimidate referees.
Address referee concerns or issues through the proper channels after the game.
Support junior or learner referees as part of the development pathway.
Parents and Spectators Must:
Refrain from yelling at referees or questioning their decisions during games.
Never approach a referee before, during, or after a game to dispute a call.
Encourage players to respect all game officials.
The club will actively support referee recruitment and training.
Coaches and players will be educated about the referee pathway and the challenges referees face.
New or young referees will be protected under the Club’s Child Safety and Welfare Policy and monitored by the Referee Coordinator (if applicable).
Step | Action |
1. Verbal Warning | Club official (e.g., Committee Member, Court Supervisor) may give a calm but firm reminder if inappropriate behaviour is observed. |
2. Written Warning | If behaviour continues or is deemed serious, a formal warning will be issued by the Club President or Discipline Subcommittee. |
3. Sanctions | Sanctions may include temporary suspension from games, bans from attending games, or full membership review depending on severity. |
4. Reporting to League or Association | Serious or repeated breaches may be escalated to the league or Basketball Victoria. |
Any concerns about referee performance must be submitted in writing within 24 hours of the match via the Club's feedback form or to the Competition Coordinator.
Under no circumstances is it acceptable to confront or challenge a referee directly.
Code of Conduct (Players, Coaches, Parents)
Child Safety & Welfare Policy
Complaints and Grievance Policy
Member Protection Policy
This policy will be reviewed annually or after any serious breach to ensure it remains effective, fair, and aligned with Basketball Victoria’s expectations