The OVA provides members with opportunities to become certified referees and pursue ongoing professional development
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 in a safe and inclusive environment. 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.
Local
The first level in the OVA Referees' development program, it is designed for any person aspiring to become a volleyball referee. The purpose is to enable the candidate to understand and apply basic rule interpretations. Local referees are allowed and expected to officiate as a first official at OVA 13U-16U youth competitions and elementary and high school leagues and tournaments; as well as work as lines people and score keep at College and University matches.
Provincial
In order to become a Provincial Referee, a candidate must have been active as a Local Referee for at least one year and fulfilled all the requirements of the Provincial Upgrade Mentorship Program. The Provincial Referee is allowed and expected to officiate as first referee at senior High School, OVA 13U-18U youth competitions, Ontario Championships, High Performance Centres and Ontario Summer Games.
Regional (Indoor Only)
An official aspiring to be a Regional Referee must have been active as a Provincial Referee for at least two years and must be recommended by the Regional Referees' Chair for entry into the Regional Upgrade Program. The Level 3 - Regional Referee is recognized as a "senior referee" and as such is allowed and expected to officiate at all competition levels in Ontario including Ontario Championships, High Performance Centres, Ontario Summer Games, and College and University matches.
National
A referee seeking National Level status must have been active as a Regional Referee for at least two years and must be recommended by the Referees Committee for entry into the National Upgrade Program. The National Level Referee has the opportunity and is expected to officiate at all competition levels in Ontario: Ontario Championships, High Performance Centres, Ontario Summer Games, Canada Games, and College and University matches. They may also be invited to officiate outside the province at the highest levels of volleyball competition.
International
International Referee is the highest level attainable in the Referees’ Development Program. Only the top National Referees from across Canada will be recommended for entry into the International Upgrade Program. International referees must be prepared to officiate at the highest levels of volleyball throughout the province, country and world.