GAME CENTRE
NEWCASTLE Basketball is thrilled to announce the appointment of Alison Ross as our new Referee Development Manager.
Alison brings a wealth of experience having refereed NBL, WNBL, and internationally at FIBA Oceania tournaments. In addition to her personal accomplishments, Alison also has experience guiding Australia’s emerging talent as Referees Commissioner at National Junior Championships and National Schools Championships.
Alison has always been a trailblazer, breaking ground as the third ever woman to blow the whistle in the NBL.
Newcastle Basketball General Manager Matt Neason believes the appointment is a major coup.
“We want to be the gold standard across all functions of basketball,” Neason said.
“While we have work to do and we know that it will take time, Alison’s appointment is a massive step in the right direction.
“Alison’s experience is obviously a key part, but what is more important is that she’s a great fit for the culture we’re looking to build. She sets high expectations and is firm in driving standards, but equally she is approachable and has great relationships with referees and coaches alike.
“Mutual respect for the role we all play in delivering quality basketball is vital.”
Under Alison’s tutelage, Coffs Harbour won the 2019 BNSW Referee Program of the Year (under 2000 members).
It’s a result that she is eager to replicate at Newcastle.
“Newcastle has a proud history of developing elite referees and I’m committed to ensuring that tradition continues,” Ross said.
A key focus for Newcastle Basketball will be greater synergy across departments.
“Basketball tends to integrate coach and player development really well,” Neason said.
“Unfortunately, referee development can sit out on an island. We see an opportunity to change that and approach referee development in the same way that we do players and coaches.”
Alison will officially begin her role on January 23, and we trust the Newcastle Basketball community will join us in making her feel welcome.
