The free workshop was held on Sunday 10 November 2019 at Priceline Stadium and was run by Netball SA Workforce Coordinator – Officiating, Deanna Stainer, along with Chris Ranger and David Walker. Both Chris and David hold a National Bench Official Accreditation and are members of the Netball SA Bench Official Allocation Panel.
Seven participants attended the workshop and were provided with further background on the role and duties of bench officials. Both Chris and David gave participants valuable insights into their background and experience. They also discussed the many exciting opportunities bench officiating can lead to, including Test Matches, World Cups and Commonwealth Games.
The participants were put through their paces practically learning the role of Scorer 2 and Timer 1 whilst watching match footage. Participants were able to ask questions and review the paperwork with the guidance of Chris and David.
Participants from the workshop who wish to become a bench official will take part in the Bench Official Training Program, which is conducted in alignment with State Team trainings from February to April.
Deanna says the workshops are a valuable interactive experience for those interested in learning more about what it takes to be a bench official.
“The Bench Officials Workshop provides a face-to-face learning opportunity that is unique to the Bench Officials Education Course (online). It allows new officials to learn in an open environment with others of similar or no experience,” said Deanna.
“The content of the workshop is basic and easy to understand which provides emerging officials with suitable level of learning upon the workshop concluding and progressing into the training program.”
In 2019, six new officials that attended the Bench Official Workshop held in late 2018 achieved their State Bench Official Accreditation – this is the highest ever number of State Accreditations awarded in South Australia.
Deanna says the ongoing development of bench officiating talent is crucial for the sustainability of netball and Netball SA provide many other opportunities to develop talent in this space.
“Netball SA provides Bench Officials with the opportunity to practice, develop and receive support across a training program prior to the SSN, DUANL and Premier League seasons commencing. Through the program, Bench Officials have a chance to practice their skills on State Team, Southern Force and Adelaide Thunderbirds Training Matches.”
“At each session the officials are supported by nationally accredited officials to develop their key areas of improvement as per each official’s goals set at the start of the year.”
Netball SA also conducts Bench Officials Accreditations for either State or National Accreditations across each Season. Officials are identified and developed during the Training Program and Season to meet the criteria.
If you are interested in becoming a bench official or would like more information please contact Netball SA Workforce Coordinator – Officiating, Deanna Stainer via email Deanna.stainer@netballsa.asn.au.
