The South African Blackball Federation (SABF) is committed to upholding the highest standards of fairness and professionalism in Blackball, and our referees play an essential role in achieving this goal.
SABF provides a structured pathway for referees to develop and advance their skills through our comprehensive grading system, ensuring that each game is officiated with integrity, knowledge, and consistency.As an official member of the International Blackball Federation (IBF), we are pushing hard to secure IBF recognition for our referees, aligning our standards with international requirements. Our referees are graded at the national level during national championships, where they demonstrate their expertise and commitment to the sport. This system enables referees to progress through clearly defined levels as they gain experience and proficiency.
Referee Grading Levels
Our grading system comprises four levels, each reflecting the referee’s experience and responsibilities:
Level 1: League Referee
Entry-level referees who officiate at local leagues and competitions, ensuring that the foundational rules of Blackball are upheld at the grassroots level.
Level 2: Provincial Referee
Referees with experience in league play who have advanced to officiate at provincial-level events, showcasing their understanding and enforcement of the game’s rules in a larger, more competitive environment.
Level 3: National Referee
National referees have achieved a high level of skill and experience, qualifying them to officiate at national championships. They are evaluated and graded based on their performance in these high-stakes events.
Level 4: Head Referee
The highest level in our grading system, Head Referees oversee major events, lead officiating teams, and mentor other referees. They are responsible for maintaining the highest standards of fairness and consistency in every match.Pursuing Excellence SABF referees are not only dedicated to officiating matches but also play a crucial role in upholding the spirit and integrity of Blackball. As we work towards IBF recognition, our referees are essential in setting a standard of excellence that reflects the passion and professionalism of the South African Blackball community.
Join Our Referee Program For those interested in becoming a Blackball referee, SABF offers training programs and resources to help you start and grow your career in officiating. Whether you’re new to the sport or aiming to advance to the national level, there’s a pathway for everyone committed to making a positive impact in Blackball.
Contact Us
For more information on our referee programs, training, or grading system, please reach out to SABF. Together, let’s ensure every game of Blackball is officiated with fairness, expertise, and dedication.— Let me know if you’d like to add more details about training, mentoring, or the IBF recognition process!