Getting Started – New Basketball Officials
Yes — we need you!
Without officials, games are only practice. As veteran officials retire, new officials have an opportunity to make a huge difference in the lives of hundreds of young people every year. There are some upfront costs for registration and uniforms, but you recover those quickly once you start working games. And you’re never alone — there are plenty of resources and people ready to help.
Getting started — step by step
Register with the IHSA
All officials working Middle School and High School games must be licensed by the Illinois High School Association (IHSA). Registration opens May 1st each year.
Visit the IHSA website and select “Officials” from the top menu. There’s also a helpful short video walkthrough of the registration process.
Complete IHSA requirements
After registering, you’ll need to complete a few mandatory items before the season starts:
The IHSA will mail you a rule book and case book. Don’t be overwhelmed — help is available for all of this.
Get your uniform and equipment
Here’s exactly what you need:
Attend a basketball clinic
The best way to learn is by doing. Assigners — the people who put you on games — host clinics throughout the fall. These cover rules, mechanics, and court positioning, and typically include live games where new officials get on the floor.
Attending a clinic is a must. Use the Boys or Girls Assigners menu at the top of this site to find and contact assigners directly.
Take a new officials class
Two organizations offer excellent classes for new officials:
Join an officials association
We would love to have you join AOS. We meet prior to the season at Hoffman Estates High School on Monday Nights. The information on how to join is on the front page of this website. Local associations meet regularly and include veteran officials, newer officials, and assigners. Being a member can significantly accelerate your career — assigners are key to getting you on the field. If AOS is not in your area, the IHSA maintains a full list of recognized associations in Illinois:
Explore the NFHS
The National Federation of State High School Associations is a valuable optional resource. Membership includes online rule books and other learning materials. You are not required to join, but many officials find it worthwhile.