Across all sports in the province and in Canada, and indeed in volleyball as well, sport organizations are struggling to fill referee positions that are crucial for sport development.  Even before the pandemic, referee recruitment and retention was not keeping up with the year-to-year growth of volleyball in the province.  As it becomes more and more popular, the OVA continues to feel the pressure of increased demand for referees – this is a great problem to have!  COVID-19 has undoubtedly had a further negative impact on the referee community and the OVA lost 1/3 of its registered referees from the 2019-2020 season.

As we prepare for a full season, the OVA is going all-in on referee recruitment and retention!  If you would like to stay involved, earn some extra income, make the calls, keep everyone safe and be on the stand, register for the online theory today!

To further assist with referee recruitment, as a pilot program for the upcoming 15U and 16U boys' and girls' seasons, teams will be assigned lining and scoring duties for pool play  games during regular season events. This pilot is geared towards supporting the growth of the sport through referee recruitment, player education and large event support. Team lining and scoring assignments will be scheduled for all regular season events (round robin matches only) regardless of format to spark some interest in our OVA young athletes!

The Ontario Sport Network (OSN) has also been entrusted with a subsidy programme, valued at over $100,000 to support the training expenses of referees. Officials are one of the key ingredients needed for organized sport and without them there would be no match/game. OSN aims to provide financial support towards education and supplies for new and existing sport officials at all levels to help alleviate one of the main barriers of recruitment and retention.  Be sure to apply today!

Got questions?  Check out the FAQ below or contact us at referees@ontariovolleyball.org!

The OVA provides members with opportunities to become certified referees and pursue ongoing professional development. Becoming a volleyball referee is a great way to continue with Volleyball for Life.

OVA referees play a key role within the volleyball community ensuring match play occurs in accordance with Volleyball Canada rules. OVA referees can be assigned to referee a range of matches including: OVA tournaments (Indoor Youth Competitions and OVA Beach Tour); Provincial Championships; OUA and OCAA matches; high school games; and other events.