Why Become an Official?
Officiating basketball is more than just making calls - it's about being part of the game you love, staying active, earning competitive pay, and developing leadership skills. We welcome officials of all backgrounds, ages 18+, with no prior experience required.
💰 Earning Potential
Officials earn $60-130 per game depending on level and experience. With 3-4 games in a day, you could earn $60-80 per hour! Many officials work 20-60+ games per season, earning $1,500-$6,000+ annually. Work as many or as few games as you want - you control your schedule through our online assignment system.
Your Path to Officiating
Complete IAABO Online Courses
Start your journey by taking the comprehensive IAABO online rules course. This self-paced course covers all basketball rules, interpretations, and fundamentals you'll need to know.
After that, you will learn how to be a ref with the Crew of Two Mechanics course. This course teaches you where to be on the court and how to work effectively with your partner, including proper positioning, movement, and mechanics.
- Complete NFHS basketball rules
- Rule interpretations and applications
- Game situations and proper calls
- Officials' responsibilities and procedures
- Opposite-side mechanics system
- Court positioning and coverage areas
- Partner communication and teamwork
- Transition and rotation techniques
Receive Welcome Package & Background Check
Once you complete both courses, our Interpreter and Secretary will be notified of your results. They'll reach out to you with your welcome package!
- Official IAABO Board 35 application
- CIAC background check form (required by state)
- Information about uniforms and equipment
- Meeting schedule and training calendar
- Contact information for board officers
Join Board 35 & Attend Training
Welcome to the team! Attend our meetings and training events to connect with veteran officials, learn game management techniques, and prepare for your first games.
- Organizational meeting to get started
- Rules interpretation sessions
- On-court training and practice
- Shot clock operation training
- Support from experienced officials
- Game assignments starting with youth/JV levels
Earning Potential
Officiating is a rewarding opportunity both personally and financially. Here's what you can expect:
Game Fee Earnings
Per Game: Fees vary by level and experience
Beginning Officials: $60-80 per game
Experienced Officials: $90-110 per game
Advanced Level Games: $120-130 per game
💡 Work 3-4 games in a day = $60-80/hour!
💰 The Bottom Line
Officiating provides excellent earning potential with flexible scheduling. Game fees range from $60-130, and with multiple games scheduled on tournament days, many officials earn $60-80 per hour. While there are startup and ongoing costs (similar to any business), most officials find the financial return far exceeds the investment. You control how many games you work, and your earnings grow as you advance to higher levels.
💼 Tax Considerations
Many officials treat officiating as self-employment income. Your fees, uniforms, equipment, mileage to games, and related expenses may be tax deductible against your officiating income. We recommend consulting with a tax professional to understand how officiating income and expenses apply to your specific tax situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any basketball experience?
No! While playing experience can be helpful, it's not required. Our training program teaches you everything you need to know about rules, mechanics, and game management. Many successful officials never played organized basketball.
How long does it take to get started?
The online courses are self-paced and can be completed in a few weeks. Once you finish and submit your application, you can start attending meetings and getting game assignments within a few weeks. Most new officials work their first games within 1-2 months of starting the process.
What's the time commitment?
That's completely up to you! You control your availability in our online assignment system (Arbiter Sports). Some officials work 1-2 games per week, others work 4-5. Games typically run 1-2 hours depending on level. We also have periodic training meetings throughout the season.
What equipment do I need?
You'll need official shirts (black and white striped), black pants, black shoes, a whistle, and a few accessories. We provide detailed guidance on where to purchase everything and what specific styles are required. Expect to invest $150-200 in your initial uniform setup. We are proud to partner with Blow Your Whistles for our equipment supplier.
Can I work games during my first year?
Yes! After completing your courses and background check, you'll start receiving assignments for youth and JV level games. You'll gain experience and confidence while working your way up to varsity games.
What if I have more questions?
We're here to help! Contact us at info@iaabo35.org or reach out through our Facebook page. We're happy to answer any questions and help you get started.
Ready to Get Started?
Join IAABO Board 35 today and become part of Northeast Connecticut's basketball officiating community