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C.0.R ACADEMY

LEARNING CENTER: COR ACADEMY-Blog


Preparing as a Varsity Basketball Official: Expectations, Communication, and Professionalism
While every season carries its own weight, this one felt more focused. I made it a point to prioritize preparation—both physically and mentally

Sarge
Aug 285 min read


Built in the Gym: Why Officiating Camps Matter More Than You Think
your skills—attending a basketball officiating camp can be a transformative experience. However, before you sign up, pack your officiating gear, and hit the road, there are several important factors to consider.

Sarge
Jun 237 min read


When the Whistle Echoes: A Call for Integrity in Officiating Leadership
There is a sacred space between the lines of a high school field or court. It’s where the athletes play, where dreams are made, and where...

Sarge
Jun 64 min read


The Top 10 Body Language Mistakes Referees Make as High School Basketball Officials👇
Early career enthusiasm sometimes led me into overly close interactions,

Sarge
May 303 min read


When They React, You Lead: Emotional Intelligence in Officiating
Have you ever been screamed at by a coach in front of a packed gym and had to act like it didn’t phase you? As a basketball official,...

Sarge
May 276 min read


Major Rule Updates Coming for 2025-26 High School Basketball Season
This year, bench decorum will be a point of emphasis,” said Billy Strickland, NFHS Committee Chair. “Communication between coaches and officials needs to be professional—this rule helps clarify accountability.”

Sarge
May 222 min read


Every Whistle Builds to This: Lessons from the 1A/2A State Tournament
The truth is, no matter how many years you've been officiating, the State experience will teach you new lessons.

Sarge
May 1311 min read


Rank Doesn't Define You: Staying Motivated Through Evaluation Season
Your rank, evaluations, or selections do not define you.

Sarge
Apr 214 min read


Rebuilding the Bridge: How Basketball Associations Can Discipline Without Destroying Growth
n every basketball association, there inevitably comes a moment when a member—be it a seasoned official with years of experience or a promising newcomer still finding their footing—makes a mistake.

Sarge
Apr 165 min read


Is Your Association Falling Behind on Social Media?
Today, social media isn't just a platform for casual updates—it’s an essential tool for recruiting, educating, and showcasing talent.

Sarge
Apr 165 min read


The Role of Officiating Fitness and AAU Basketball Officiating
As I lace up my shoes again for another season, I'm grateful for the journey officiating has provided. The lessons learned from fitness routines, AAU tournaments,

Sarge
Apr 165 min read


Battlefields to Basketball: The Humble Truth About Being Replaceable
I quickly realized that no matter how skilled, experienced, or respected an official is, there are always others ready to step in at a moment's notice.

Sarge
Apr 153 min read


Keep the Fire Burning: Why Officiating Camps Matter, No Matter Your Experience
Regardless of how much experience you have or the awards and accolades you've received, officiating is a craft that requires continuous improvement and a relentless pursuit of excellence

Sarge
Apr 104 min read


Fast Track to the Top: Is Rapid Progress as a High School Basketball Official Always a Good Thing?
I always tell new officials: Be late. Be needed. Be right. Don’t just chase the next assignment.

Sarge
Apr 75 min read


Navigating Challenges and Social Media: The Journey to Success in Officiating
No matter how much you contribute to your community or excel on the court, there will always be those who doubt you.

Sarge
Mar 204 min read


Officiating High School Varsity Basketball: A Symphony of Chaos, Chants, and Life Lessons
Forget Broadway, forget Netflix, forget whatever else people are binge-watching these days. There’s no drama, no comedy, and no unscripted c

Sarge
Feb 174 min read


Refereeing the Game, Not the Scoreboard: A Philosophy for Officiating Blowouts
How do you handle blowouts as an official? Have you faced a challenging situation where you had to balance fairness with game flow?

Sarge
Feb 154 min read


The Importance of Emotional Intelligence and Maturity in Becoming a Reliable High School Basketball Official
Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to recognize, understand, and manage your own emotions, as well as the emotions of others.

Sarge
Feb 155 min read


Why the "Good Cop, Bad Cop" Officiating Philosophy Doesn’t Always Work in High School Basketball
The "Good Cop, Bad Cop" officiating philosophy may have been around for a long time, but it doesn’t belong in modern high school basketball

Sarge
Feb 95 min read


Client Review: Silas vs Lincoln Varsity Game Last Play: Case Play- Foul or Flopping rule?
In our quest to provide meaningful feedback, we believe there is a noteworthy possibility that the player may have flopped

Sarge
Jan 311 min read
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