On October 27, Ontario Volleyball Association (OVA) hosted a Senior Referee Symposium at the University of Toronto Athletic Centre where 42 senior referees’ level 3 and higher were joined by varsity coaches to talk about refereeing at the post-secondary level.
The overall purpose of the symposium was to go beyond just rules and regulations and try to bridge gap between Ontario Referees and the post-secondary volleyball programs. Cohesion between the two groups is something that enhances the overall volleyball product in our province and it is something that both parties recognize.
"I really think it's a positive step forward...being able to have open, honest dialogue between coaches and referees. We're all looking for the same thing in the end...how to best showcase this beautiful, amazing sport...in the best light possible." – John Barrett – University of Toronto Men’s Head Coach
“After being a former athlete and a referee for 10 years, the symposium provided me with a new set of knowledge. Being able to sit with coaches and discuss what their expectations are, gave me the point of view I needed to fully understand the effects of my decisions.” – Kennedy Ramsden – National Referee Candidate
The symposium was kicked off by Guy Bradbury and Andrew Robb leading presentations focused on OUA and OCAA Regulations, covering all rule changes for the upcoming season, with video review sessions. These sessions would highlight specific rules, the nuances, the responsibilities of R1 and R2 with a Q&A period for further clarification.
One of the highlights of the morning was a brief talk by Samara Sevor and Jason Dodd on their international experiences this past season. Dodd was in Bulgaria for 17U Boys FIVB World Championships, where he earned his FIVB certifications, as well as at the Toronto U21 Women’s Continental Championships and Sevor was in Honduras for U18 NORCECA, and Peru for U17 Girls FIVB World Championships.
After lunch, the lead referees were joined by three (3) coaches, John Barrett, Brian Singh (former Seneca Men’s Head Coach) and Wayne Wilkins (Humber Men’s Head Coach). The focus touched more on refereeing from the perspective of an OUA or OCAA program.
The attending coaches took their time at the podium to lead a presentation on what it takes to build a program to emphasize the scope of these programs for referees to gain an understanding. They would continue with a discussion on the expectations of a referee from a coach and programs perspective. This was designed to help bridge the divide in the coach referee relationship. The afternoon would finish with more rule interpretations and application with video review and a Q&A.
"The referee symposium was very informative, and I found it to be beneficial to my advancement in refereeing. Understanding what "smooth refereeing" is and how to incorporate it in every match was great! I really enjoyed hearing from coaches from the OUA and OCAA level on their views on the game and where it's going." – Huguette Mankala-Montealegre - National Referee Candidate
"This past weekend, Ontario volleyball referees and several high-level coaches gathered for a Referees Symposium focused on strengthening the relationship between officials and coaches. We discussed recent rule updates and shared insights into each of our roles and expectations, both during a match and in preparation leading up to game day. Coaches provided valuable context on the extensive work and dedication required to perform at a high level, helping officials understand their perspective and build a foundation of respect and collaboration. This exchange aimed to foster a strong partnership between referees and coaches, ultimately enhancing the game experience for everyone involved." - Wayne Wilkins
Both referees and coaches agreed that this was a great session of collaborated education that will bring positives to both groups of attendees. There is already a plan for a 2025 Symposium at Humber College at the start of the season next year. Details will be released when a date is confirmed.