Junior Referee Development Takes Centre Stage at The Big Orange U12’s Carnival

The WPNSW Big Orange U12s event recently hosted more than just exciting water polo matches in Orange NSW. The weekend also featured a special Referee Development session for youth referees, made possible through a partnership with Macquarie Sports.

Building Skills for the Future

Led by Delegate Gail Salter and Referee Coordinator Hannah Baker, the session provided valuable training for young referees keen to build their skills and confidence. The workshop was part of WPNSW's broader initiative to develop referee talent in regional areas across New South Wales.

"The Big Orange U12’s Carnival has always been one of the grass roots carnivals to develop players, coaches, table officials, and very importantly, referees," said Gail Salter, who oversaw the training programme. "Referees that nominate to officiate at The Big Orange U12’s Carnival are given the best start to their officiating journey in the sport of water polo."

The development session welcomed participants of various ages and experience levels. While many junior referees attended, the programme also attracted adults returning to the sport after a break, often parents of current players who wish to contribute to their local competitions.

The interactive workshop covered essential skills including whistle techniques, hand signals, recent rule updates, and the modified rules specific to U12 competitions. Participants engaged in role-playing exercises addressing common match scenarios, with ample time devoted to questions and answers.

"Our Referee Information Session, sponsored by Macquarie Sports, was attended by the junior and senior referees as well as interested parents wanting to learn more about the game and the rules," Gail explained.

Success Stories from the Big Orange

The weekend proved particularly rewarding for three junior referees who earned their Community Level Accreditation during the carnival. Emmett Bartlett from Easts Water Polo Club and Annika Burdack from Central Water Polo Club, both from the Newcastle area, along with Caitlin Atallah from Orange Water Polo Club, who had been working towards official accreditation for several years, successfully completed their requirements.

For Caitlin, the achievement represented the culmination of a journey that began in 2022. "My refereeing journey began when The Big Orange U12s carnival was happening in Orange again, and I had aged out," she explains. "I started my online learning and began doing my mentor games with an accredited referee by my side."

The path to accreditation wasn't without challenges, especially this year when her long-time mentor was unable to attend the carnival. Despite this, Caitlin's determination paid off when she was selected to referee the Gold medal match for the U12 boys.

"This game was stressful and had a tight finish. I felt overwhelmed but used my skills to the best of my abilities," Caitlin shares. "Thanks to Water Polo NSW and everyone around me who helped, I was able to get through it. This led to me finally becoming accredited."

For Caitlin, the accreditation represents more than just a credential. "Being accredited means a lot to me. In my eyes, it is a recognition of my hard work and the challenges I've overcome. It provides me with the confidence to use my skills."

The positive impact of the programme was evident in feedback received by organisers. The mother of a Southern Highlands junior referee who was officiating for the first time shared: "Rosemary really enjoyed the learning experience of reffing at the Orange comp. Overall, she felt really encouraged and supported by yourself and the other senior officials and will continue to gain experience and hopefully become accredited in the future."

Macquarie Sports, whose grant made the development session possible, expressed satisfaction with the programme's focus. Chris McKenzie from Macquarie Sports stated, "Macquarie Sports is pleased to support the Water Polo NSW Junior Referee Development program. The program's focus on regional areas aligns with our aim of ensuring sport remains accessible and inclusive for young people across all communities."

Regional Development in Action

The referee development initiative forms part of a wider effort managed by WPNSW Referee Coordinator Wojciech Wloch, who oversees referee development programmes across all regions of New South Wales.

For young people interested in becoming water polo referees, The Big Orange U12’s Carnival has established itself as an ideal starting point, offering supportive mentorship and practical experience in a friendly environment.

This collaborative effort between WPNSW and Macquarie Sports highlights the commitment to nurturing officiating talent in regional areas, ensuring the continued growth of water polo across New South Wales both in and out of the pool.

Ready to Pick up the Whistle?

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a water polo referee, WPNSW has development programmes running throughout the year across the state. Young referees are especially encouraged to join the pathway, with supportive mentoring and training available. For more information about upcoming referee development sessions or to express interest in officiating, please contact the WPNSW Referee Coordinators at referees@waterpolonsw.org.au or visit the WPNSW website