Referee

The YMCA of Reading & Berks County is seeking a Seasonal Youth Basketball Referee to officiate games and provide a safe, fair, and positive experience for young athletes. This position promotes sportsmanship, helps participants understand the game, and models the YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Position Type: Seasonal, part-time, hourly
Schedule: Sundays, January 10–February 14, 2027, from 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Hourly Rate: $15- $20, based on experience.

Responsibilities:

- Officiate youth basketball games according to YMCA league rules and age-specific guidelines.

- Make fair, consistent calls and explain rules to participants when appropriate.

- Promote teamwork, sportsmanship, and respectful behavior among players, coaches, and spectators.

- Maintain control of games and address disagreements calmly and professionally.

- Coordinate with coaches, scorekeepers, and other officials to support organized game operations.

- Inspect courts and equipment for hazards and respond to injuries or unsafe conditions according to YMCA procedures.

- Promptly report injuries, incidents, and participant concerns.

- Follow YMCA child protection policies and maintain appropriate boundaries with participants.

- Arrive on time, attend required training, and assist with basic court setup and cleanup.

Qualifications

- Knowledge of basketball rules and fundamentals, with the ability to learn YMCA youth league rules.

- Previous basketball playing, coaching, or officiating experience preferred.

- Experience working with children or youth preferred.

- Strong communication skills and the ability to interact professionally with players, families, and staff.

- Ability to make timely decisions, resolve disagreements, and remain composed during games.

- Dependability and availability to work the scheduled Sundays throughout the season.

- Ability to complete required background checks, child protection clearances, and YMCA training before beginning work.

- Ability to meet any CPR, First Aid, and AED certification requirements established for the position.

- Ability to perform essential duties, including standing, walking, moving along the court, occasionally running, and observing and responding to play, with or without reasonable accommodation.