Keeping volunteers, especially match officials like referees, is a constant challenge for any sport. Negative spectator behaviour, inappropriate comments, and a lack of respect for officials have contributed to volunteers leaving the sport and deters new ones from stepping up.

“Volunteers, particularly referees, often face challenging and sometimes hostile environments during games, which can lead to stress and lower retention rates,” said Technical Officials Development Manager, Alex McEwan.

Basketball Queensland is taking a proactive approach by introducing the Positive Behaviours Framework. By setting clear guidelines for acceptable behaviour from players, coaches, parents, and spectators, the Framework promotes respect, cooperation, and positive communication across all levels of the game.

“We recognized that without addressing these concerns—especially given the growth of the sport—the future of basketball would face challenges,” said Mr McEwan.

Two of the most visible changes have been the introduction of the Green Lanyard and the Warning Card.

The Green Lanyard

Referees under the age of 18 wear green lanyards, signifying that they are minors, and the community is encouraged to interact with them in a supportive and constructive manner. This initiative aims to shield younger officials from abuse while also nurturing their development in a positive environment.

Referee wearing the Green Lanyard

A young referee wearing the Green Lanyard during a game
Image supplied by Basketball Queensland

The Warning Card

Warning Cards provide a clear process for volunteers to manage poor sideline behaviour, resulting in the removal of individuals who breach the framework and a technical foul free throw for the opposition. For younger age groups, the number of technical fouls required for a player or coach to be excluded from the game has also been reduced, encouraging them to keep their behaviour in line.

Referees talking

Image supplied by Basketball Queensland

What has changed?

Across Queensland cooperation between spectators, coaches, and officials has improved and reports of verbal abuse have dropped. Volunteer retention rates have increased as individuals feel safer and more supported in their roles.

Finding enough referees and match officials for the State Championships was previously a challenge for Basketball Queensland. Since the Framework was introduced, the most recent State Championships received 224 nominations for match officials.

“For the first time, 50 officials had to be turned away due to the surplus. This dramatic shift highlights the program's success in creating a welcoming and supportive environment,” said Mr McEwan.

The Framework also fosters a culture of respect by providing channels for feedback so the efforts of volunteers can be acknowledged. By showing how their work is valued, volunteers are being retained and more individuals have signed up.

“The Positive Behaviours Framework will continue to evolve as the game and social behaviours change. At BQ, we are proud of the results we are seeing and hope that this initiative will have a lasting impact on the overall culture of our sport.”

Learn more about Basketball Queensland’s Behaviour Framework