Mongolia glad to host Game officials clinic, hopeful for more

BEIRUT (Lebanon) - A game officials clinic was held in Mongolia as part of the FIBA Regional Office - Asia’s commitment to improving the various aspects of the game. 

A total of 30 potential national referees, both male and female, took part in the workshop in Mongolia between 25-27 April where they were able to get a better understanding of how to improve their level of officiating.

Tugsjargal Sambuu, Secretary General of the Mongolia Basketball Association (MBA) said: "Mongolian basketball is developing increasingly these years as basketball is a top sport in Mongolia. It’s vital not only to have good talented players, but FIBA-licensed game officials, as well"

"We really need to focus on improving our game officials especially their knowledge and skills. That is an essential part of basketball development. This game officials clinic was very useful for us. We want to organize more game officials clinics in the future. We are so glad that we had a chance to host this clinic over these 3 days."

During the course of the clinic, all participants went through a rigorous assessment of skills as part of an important evaluation exercise to identify those referees with the most potential. On-court practical sessions were also organized to help the participants understand the tasks at hand to help them become FIBA-licensed referees and understand how to tackle challenges during the games. 

Burmaa Burneebaatar, a participating game official: "We learned the modern officiating system and many other things. We also had the opportunity to ask questions about the rule changes and other details related to officiating. We are motivated to learn and improve as game officials."

FIBA