Junior Officials Registration

Junior Officials,

We hope you've enjoyed a great off-season!

As we gear up for the 2025-2026 basketball season, we're excited to announce that the OSBA Junior Officials Program is returning—and we’re calling on all returning and new referees to join us once again!

This season, junior officials will have the opportunity to officiate games across multiple programs, including:

• Pre-season sort-out Housleague (for those officials with training from 24-25 season)

• U10 Development Program

• U12-U16 EOBA League Games (commence end Oct 25)

• Competitive Exhibition Games (U10 to U16)

We will once again be partnering with Ottawa Selects (OSS) and Nepean Bluedevils Basketball (NBBA) to give officials even more opportunities to get on the court and build experience.

🧑 Training Details

Training will kick off in the last week of September and include:

• Online video teleconferencing sessions

• In-gym court sessions (locations to be confirmed)

• Online quizzes and knowledge checks

This blended format ensures you’ll be confident and prepared heading into the season.

🧑 Game Start Date

Games are scheduled to begin in late October.

More details will follow in early September with your full training schedule, materials, and expectations for this season.

If you're ready to ref again or have questions, stay tuned—we’ll be reaching out soon with everything you need to get back in the game.

Thanks for your continued commitment to officiating and supporting youth basketball in Ottawa!

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Q: Do I need to buy any gear to get started?
A: Nope! The OSBA has you covered.

All registered junior officials will receive:

• An OSBA-branded referee jersey

• A Fox40-style whistle with lanyard

• All required training - including online modules, Zoom sessions, in-person court training, and rulebook access

We want our officials focused on learning the game—not worrying about equipment. Whether you're stepping on the court for your first game or your fiftieth, we’ll make sure you're geared up and ready to go.

Q: How do I register to become a Junior Official for the 2025-2026 season?
A: It's easy! Just click the link below to get started with your registration:

👉 Register Here to Join the OSBA Junior Officials Program

Once registered, you’ll receive follow-up emails in early September with your training schedule and next steps. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Q: How old do I have to be to join the Junior Officials Program?
A: You must be at least 14 years old by December 31, 2026 to participate in the 2025-2026 season.

If you were born in 2012 or earlier, you’re eligible to register and take part in training.

Q: How many games will I officiate each week?
A: Junior officials will have the opportunity to request games based on the available schedule and their availability.
Most officials work two games per weekend, but those who are more available—and show strong performance—may be assigned additional games.
Most games are on weekends

You’re in control of your schedule, and we do our best to match you with games that suit your age group, experience, and comfort level.

Q: Can I earn volunteer hours through the Junior Officials Program?
A: Yes! While refereeing is a paid position, junior officials who are looking to earn volunteer hours for school or community service can step forward as timekeepers.

We provide basic timekeeping training, and this is a great way to get involved, support the game, and rack up volunteer hours—all while learning the flow of officiating from the sidelines.

Sincerely,
OSBA Officials Program