LAKELAND - There is a continued need for more basketball officials in order to help keep junior high and high school basketball seasons running across the Lakeland.
A basketball officiating clinic to train new officials is taking place this weekend in Cold Lake, on Nov. 26. According to Rachel Hunt, one of the assigners in the Lakeland, it would be great to see at least six people take part in the clinic.
The clinic will run from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday at Cold Lake High School. Anyone who is in Grade 9 and older can take the course. The day includes a classroom portion and a gym portion. The cost to take the course is $20.
Hunt says becoming an official is a great way for athletes to transition out of their high school years and "stay connected to the game." So while they may no longer be able to play the sport, they can still be part of the basketball community.
Also, "You get to work as team and have an opportunity to meet many new people who share the same love of basketball," says Hunt.
Taking part in the clinic also allows for current athletes, coaches and even spectators to have a better understanding of the game, "and appreciate the hard work that goes into being a good official."
And since officials need to be on the move as they keep a game running smoothly, it also is a great way to stay active.
Building life skills is another bonus to taking the officiating clinic - "teamwork, loyalty, sacrifice, dedication, decision making, and honesty" are just some of the skills that becoming an official can help develop, says Hunt.
"It also requires you to learn how to control your emotions and keep your composure when dealing with people."
And of course, officials are paid to do the job, so earning a bit of extra cash on the side is also a draw.
Hunt can be reached via email at laboassigner@gmail.com for more information, which is also how those interested can RSVP to the clinic. The event will not run if there is not enough interest.
Training new basketball officials has been a challenge in the Lakeland for a couple of years. The basketball season is set to start soon in schools across the area.