LEARNING CENTER: COR ACADEMY-Blog

In high-profile basketball games, every decision you make as an official will be magnified. Cameras capture every whistle, every non-whistle, every gesture, and every reaction. Fans, coaches, athletes, and especially opponents of the moment will dissect your performance in real time. And afterward, the world will replay it in slow motion and debate it with absolute certainty—even when they have never officiated a game in their lives. As someone who spent years in the military

It’s a five-minute conversation. That’s all it takes—five focused minutes to get your crew dialed in, aligned, and ready for whatever the game throws at you.

Let’s be honest — we’ve all experienced it. You have a reliable varsity crew that you trust. The game lacks playoff implications, or perhaps it’s just another junior high matchup where the biggest challenge is keeping the clock running. You take your position, blow the whistle for tipoff or kickoff, and suddenly…you’re coasting. Everything feels routine — until it isn’t. Then something unexpected occurs: a bench-clearing altercation, a controversial call, or a game-changing p

While every season carries its own weight, this one felt more focused. I made it a point to prioritize preparation—both physically and mentally

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.

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...

Early career enthusiasm sometimes led me into overly close interactions,

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,...

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.”