Tips for Coaches Refereeing Yr 3 & 4 Games
In Year 4, coaches usually referee to help guide players on court.
Think of yourself as a game facilitator, not just a rule enforcer.
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Use positive encouragement and ensure everyone gets a turn with the ball.
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Keep the game flowing – don’t stop for every small mistake.
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Give short, clear explanations (e.g., “Next time remember to dribble”).
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Blow the whistle loudly when the ball goes out of bounds or there is big/intentional contact.
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Use your voice to help guide players:
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“You need to pass now.”
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“Stay where you are.”
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“Spread out.”
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Band Rules
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Every player on court wears a coloured band.
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Players can only defend and steal the ball from the player wearing the same-coloured band.
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If a player steals the ball from someone with a different band:
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The on-court coach must blow their whistle.
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Remind the defender they can only guard their own colour.
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Return the ball to the other team on the sideline.
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What to Call
Travel:
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Small shuffles are fine – let play continue.
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If a player runs with the ball, stop the game and explain the mistake.
Fouls:
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Call fouls only for big contact.
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Contact is a foul if it:
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Affects the player’s ability to shoot, dribble, or pass,
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Slows down the player with the ball, or
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The ball is taken off them in an unfair manner.
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Blow whistle, stop the game, then give the ball back to the fouled team on the sideline or baseline.
Double Dribble:
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Give gentle reminders: once a player picks up the ball, they cannot dribble again.
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Players also can’t dribble with two hands at the same time.
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Allow a few chances to learn. If a player gains a big advantage, stop play, explain, and give the ball to the other team on the sideline or baseline.
Out of Bounds:
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Blow whistle loudly so everyone hears.
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Give the ball to the other team.
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Make sure the throw-in is taken from behind the line.
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Encourage everyone to have a turn at throwing the ball in.
