FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions for Officials
Q: What is BOOM?
A: Basketball Officials of Metrolina Association (BOOM) is an organization of basketball officials which provides quality basketball officiating services basketball for many High Schools and Middle Schools in Mecklenburg, Union, Cabarrus, Iredell and Rowan Counties. For more information about BOOM, visit our “About Us” page.
Q: I’ve never refereed before, but would like to become an official. How can I become a member of BOOM with no officiating experience?
A: The experienced staff that make-up BOOM will be more than willing to help you reach any officiating goals you may have. BOOM has officials with over thirty years of high school officiating experience all the way down to officials who are officiating varsity basketball for their first year. These experienced officials are always happy to assist you in any way possible. BOOM conducts a series of clinics each year, covering the rules of basketball as well as proper officiating mechanics. The clinics are run by clinic leaders who are selected by the Booking Agent on the basis of their knowledge of the rules and mechanics, passion for the game, and years of experience. Film review is provided as an important component of the clinics. In addition, the NCHSAA conducts an annual meeting to discuss several issues relating to upcoming season including rules changes, points of emphasis along with other topics. A rule book and case book will be provided to you by the NCHSAA following your registration with the State.
Q: I officiated basketball in another area, but will be moving to the Charlotte area. How can I be a part of BOOM?
A: BOOM is happy to accept transfers from other areas. There is a Quick Links tab (to the right of this page) with the option for “Registration”. Click on registration and get started.
Q: How many clinics and scrimmages am I required to attend?
A: Officials are required to attend no fewer than 6 six local clinics and 3 scrimmages in order to receive credit with the NCHSAA (though officials are encouraged to attend as many as possible). A list of clinic meeting times, dates, and locations can be found on our website.
Q: Who can become an official?
A: Any person who has reached his or her 18th birthday prior to August 1, is physically fit, and is interested in basketball officiating is eligible for membership.
Q: What are the requirements to become an official? 
A: There are three steps to follow:
1. North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) Registration Fee: You must register with the NCHSAA for every sport you officiate. To view the current fee structure, please visit www.nchsaa.org and select the officiating tab. Typically, mid-September is the deadline to register with the NCHSAA.
2. BOOM Registration Fee: This fee is paid directly to the local regional assignor. The annual membership fee is normally equal to the game fee paid for one varsity doubleheader assignment. Late fees will apply if you register after the prescribed deadline.
3. Uniforms: The official uniform has the following components: grey shirt (with side panels), black beltless pants, Fox 40 Classic whistle, and black socks and shoes. There are numerous officiating equipment websites that will provide this equipment, (i.e. GeaRef, The Officials Choice, Purchase Officials, etc.)
Q: Do I have to take a test to be able to officiate?
A: The NCHSAA mandates that each official who plans to officiate any member school of NCHSAA, must pass a test (75%) administered electronically by the National Federation of High School Associations. Test scores are used to calculate an officials rating with the state, and officials must score 90% or better on the test in order to be eligible to officiate playoff games.
Q: How much do officials get paid?
A: Game fees below are for all NCHSAA-sanction games. Fees for private, middle school, and invitational / holiday tournament games may differ from those listed.
Varsity (doubleheader) = $105.00
JV (doubleheader) = $83.50
Varsity (single game) = $69.50
JV and 9th Grade (single game) = $61.00
Q: How many nights a week should I expect to work?
A: The booking agent for the Association will work with you to determine when an official is available to work. You must keep your schedule updated in Arbiter with respect to dates that you cannot work. This is called “blocking” dates in Arbiter so you will not be assigned. Your assignments will be based on your availability, ability, and dependability. Games (Varsity, Junior Varsity, 9th Grade) are typically held on Tuesday and Friday nights although games will be scheduled on other days of the week
Q: I had an ejection tonight in my game. What do I do next?
A: You must follow a series of steps in order to properly report the ejection or disqualification.
1. Go to www.nchsaa.org
2. Click on Officials. Scroll down to the Orange box on the left side of the officials page.
3. Click on EJECTION /DQ REPORTING. Password: report1.
*Note: Officials must file all Ejection and DQ reports online. This report is required within 24 hours after completion of the event.
(click here to print the above FAQ sheet for offline review)
Click the orange basketball to the right of the page for registration links, downloadable BOOM files and other important information.