DO Referee Development Camp 2026

This camp, open to referees at all stages of development, will be led by Camp Instructor Bernard Vassallo, a respected and experienced ex-FIBA referee (1996-2021) and a FIBA FRIP Level 1 Referee Instructor and Referee Observer.

The DO Developmental camp is mainly intended for serious referees who are:

·        aspiring to be the best,

·        looking to improve their craft,

·        seeking continuous improvement; and

·        eager to upgrade their skill set to reach their potential.

“The main target of the DO (Developing Others) referee developmental camp is to strengthen and consolidate each participant referee in the very important officiating basics and fundamentals and build solid foundations so that the referees can work much more effectively at their current level and be prepared to advance to future higher levels. We want each referee to return home after the camp as a clearly improved and better prepared referee”

.... Bernard Vassallo

The camp will cover a range of different topics and themes in various, different environments, be it a classroom, physical-oriented sessions and even on-court and/or a real game setting.

Although 3PO mechanics will be taught as part of the curriculum, the main focus of the camp is not only 3PO but rather becoming a better prepared referee. In fact, the aim is to have focused learning and development for referees.

The quality classroom sessions may include such topics as (but not limited to):

·        Principles and techniques to improve IOTs and 3PO mechanics

·        Court Coverage, Primary, Secondary & Help defender coverage and matchups.

·        Techniques to improve decision making and play calling

·        improving Game Management, Communication skills & Leadership

·        Basic Protocols

·        Body Language and Image.

There will also be morning physically oriented sessions along the camp in preparation for the upcoming season.

However, a key element of the camp will also be the learning from the practical games in the evening. The games will also include official games from a men senior level pre-season international tournament, the Elite Basketball Tournament, with participation also of a US College select men team.

The camp will provide an environment where each referee will receive individual feedback and immediately then may put this into practice in the games on the next day.

The referee instructor will observe the games and provide feedback/analysis on the referees’ performance. The feedback areas may include 3PO mechanics, IOTs, individual image of the referee on the court, play calling and criteria, teamwork and communication and improvement in any other important areas.

 General information:

• Arrival: Monday 7th September 2025. (airport: Malta International Airport)

• Camp accommodation: Five (5) nights on Full Board residential (in double or triple rooms) ***

• Camp opens on Tuesday 8th September @ 1000 hours

• Evening games played from the 8th to the 11th of September 2026.

• Closing of camp Friday 11th September evening.

*** arrangements may be enquired for double occupancy, but it all depends on availability at the tourist village and may, but not necessarily) incur different terms and conditions

Camp Fee:

Spaces in the camp are being kept very limited (to guarantee detailed individual attention) with only a maximum of 6-9 initial open spots.

The camp fee includes (but not limited to):

·        full residential status for 5 nights (from 7th September (check-in) to 12th September (checkout) on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch and dinner) in a triple room** within a tourist village complex, the Sprachcaffe SC Club Village.

·        morning and afternoon instruction (theoretical & physical) covering different officiating topics.

·        refereeing practical application during official senior level games in the evening.

·        individual feedback, analysis and evaluation after the evening games to further aid learning and development.

** arrangements may be enquired for double occupancy, but it all depends on availability at the tourist village and may incur different terms and conditions.

JULY OFFER Early Bird Registration  –

Initial application and, if selected, eventual registration (see note a) below) by 31st July: €365

Application and, if selected, eventual registration (see note a) below) from 1st August till 8th August: €415

Application and, if selected, eventual registration (see note a) below) after 8th August: €430

Note:

a) Each application will be analysed and verified, and a notification will then be sent if it is approved so that one can then register for the camp.

b) A €150 non-refundable deposit is due upon registration (after the initial application is verified and if then selected) to secure your spot.

c) The remaining balance to be settled by 2nd September. (Payments by instalments may be agreed upon)

d) Payment is only accepted via Revolut or Bank Transfer.

e) Upon registration and payment, you will receive additional information, including camp communication and other details, including what to expect and pre-camp preparation requirements prior to the camp.

Application

Note that spots are very limited (between 6 and 9 participants) so early applications and registraitons are advised.

You can apply by filling and submitting the following form:

https://forms.gle/jR1fnoZSLxNJWASh6

Kindly note that the application is not a confirmation of acceptance to the camp.

The application will be verified and analysed by the Camp Instructor. If the application is then approved and selected, you will receive a notification of acceptance to the camp together with further info on how to proceed with the camp registration.

So, apply as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

Learning never stops.

Make a solid investment in your referee future and be ready to change your mindset to set higher standards and move towards reaching your potential.

For any further questions and/or clarifications on the camp, you may contact the Camp Instructor Bernard Vassallo via email bernardvassallo@gmail.com or phone/Whatsapp on 00356 79404404