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Basketball Ireland, in partnership with Sport Ireland, is opening applications for the DREAM Programme for referees, a national initiative designed to elevate referees’ skills, confidence, and long‑term officiating potential.

The Referee DREAM Programme — Development, Responsibility, Education, Ambition and Memories — provides high‑quality learning and practical experience through online development sessions, video analysis, in‑person assessments, rule seminars, one‑to‑one mentoring, and tournament‑based officiating across National League and AICC competitions.

As noted in programme materials: “This program is a Sport Ireland Funded Initiative to encourage and support referees on their refereeing journey and help them reach their full potential.”

The 2026 programme will support 25 mentees, organised into eight mentoring groups led by experienced national‑level officials.

Eligibility

• Minimum two years’ refereeing experience required
• Past programme members may apply again

Applications are now open. Due to limited places, eligible referees are encouraged to apply promptly by emailing pdempsey@ireland.basketball on or before the 7^th October.

Basketball Ireland looks forward to welcoming the next cohort of referees committed to excellence and leadership within Irish sport.

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Education & Development

This page contains all relevant FIBA documents along with training videos and additional material supplied by Basketball Ireland FIBA National Instructor, Paul Dempsey to aid referee development/education.

   

FIBA 2020 Official Basketball Rules - Obri Official Interpretations.pdf

FIBA 2020 Official Basketball Rules - Yellow tracking.pdf

FIBA official basketball changes for 2020 that were effective from Oct 1st 2020