RefMasters Summer Camp
Learn to Run The Game
RefMasters Camp is for serious officials looking to improve their craft and perform for some of the top assignors in the country.
Elevate your game with the tutelage of top NBA referees in an intimate classroom setting.
Work high-level, above the rim, championship basketball
Learn to analyze your film from the pros.
Receive a detailed RefScore assessment of your skills as well as areas for improvement.
Demonstrate your ability for NCAA and NBA scouts.
Connect with other rising officials from around the world.
This isn’t a networking event. This isn’t a vacation. This is where you take your craft to the next level and learn to Run The Game.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the camp being hosted? The games and class workshops will take place at the Virginia Beach Sports Center, at 1045 19th St, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
Does the camp fee include hotel? Campers can register "Camp Only" or "Camp + Hotel" which includes two nights at The Moxy Virginia Beach Oceanfront at 1201 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. Campers that select the hotel option will be paired with another camper (same gender) in a room with two queen beds.
Is transportation provided? Camp attendees are responsible for all travel related to the camp. This includes transportation between the hotel and Sports Center (1.3 miles apart). You may rent a vehicle, carpool with other campers or hire an Uber/Lyft.
What's the best way to get there? Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is the nearest airport to the Sports Center (19 miles). The Newport News Williamsburg International (PHF) is another more distant (44 miles) option. Richmond International Airport (RIC) is a final alternative if you're interested in a longer trip (101 miles).
Who is teaching? The camp's primary clinicians are James Williams (NBA Finals Referee, 14th season) and Kane Fitzgerald (NBA VP Head of Replay, former NBA Finals Referee). Other professional referees will also join us throughout the weekend.
Will assignors and scouts be there? Yes, we are currently making plans for individuals from the NCAA and NBA attend. Details will be announced at a later date. Retired NBA Finals referee and Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) coordinator Eric Lewis will be observing officials as well.
Is your camp the same as the MEAC tryout camp? The RefMasters camp and MEAC tryout camp are run in partnership with each other. They share staff, available games and other resources to the benefit of their attendees. Campers in both camps will spend time with each other and the enjoy benefits of each.
What will we be doing everyday? The camp primarily consists of film sessions, classroom style training, and officiating games. Check out the schedule below for more details.
What do I need to bring? Black and white stripe shirt with black shorts, and something for taking notes!
What topics will the camp focus on? Attendees will go deep into mechanics, play calling and game management. Our clinicians will teach frameworks and practical methods to effectively handle critical situations throughout the game.
How many games will I get to work? Each attendee will work between 3-4 games during the course of the camp
What kind of games will I work? You will officiate the HoopGroup Grassroots Finale AAU Tournament, Boys 15U-17U. The Grassroots Basketball Association (GBA) is an elite travel basketball exposure platform that brings together four powerhouse grassroots basketball circuits. The GBA Basketball Finale event is held during the NCAA D1 Live Period at the Virginia Beach Convention Center, providing a national stage for some of the best programs from across the country to showcase their athletes.
What level of experience should attendees have? While those at all levels are welcome, this camp is aimed primarily towards those with at least 3 years experience working high school varsity or low-level college games.
How do I know if this is right for me? The most important attributes are the deep desire to learn, an unrelenting work ethic and strong moral character. This isn't a camp merely for progressing your career, it is for those hungry to be their very best.
Camp Schedule (subject to change)
Friday
1pm: Lunch meet & greet (optional to attend)
3pm: Opening lecture and film session
6pm: Referee games
Saturday
8am: Group A Referee games/breakdown film
8am: Group B Classroom lecture
12pm: Lunch
1pm: Group A Classroom lecture
1pm: Group B Referee games/breakdown film
7pm: Dinner
Sunday
8am: Group A Referee games/breakdown film
8am: Group B Classroom lecture
11pm: Lunch and recap
12pm: Goodbye
Some referees may have the opportunity to work semi finals and finals until 3pm