Posted on 8 September, 2008

After a long and distinguished career as a FIBA accredited referee in Australia, Sharon recently retired and moved into the Eduction and Development area at the International level.

Sharon is one of Australia’s most successful officials and created a pathway for not just females but all referees. Having overcome the glass ceiling sometimes placed upon women in sport, Arnold has inspired officials at all levels to reach higher. 

She has officiated at the Paralympic Games in Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004, in the both the NBL and WNBL competitions and at every other possible level in Australia.

Sharon has been the long time referees advisor with Kilsyth and Mountain District Basketball Association and assists in developing current and future referees for both State, National and International competition.

“I am proud to once again represent both Australia and Kilsyth at the Paralympics.  I hope that as the first female commissioner at a Paralympic Games, I will open up the opportunities for other women at this level,” said Sharon.

“Wheelchair Basketball is a fantastic sport and well supported in Australia with the National Wheelchair Basketball League. I am honoured to be involved and encourage anyone who has the opportunity to work with these athletes to jump at the chance”

Kilsyth Basketball General Manager Grant Wallace highlighted the great contribution Sharon Arnold makes by passing on her expertise to all the Association referees.  

“Sharon has been a fantastic contributor to the Kilsyth Basketball community for many years, she provides a positive example to all referees and has created a pathway in which they can follow.  Sharon’s success on the National and International Stage has been well documented and we wish her luck in her latest accomplishment.”

“With Sharon representing the Association at such a high level it will continue to develop a pathway for referees and provide ongoing opportunities for Kilsyth referees to improve,” said Wallace.

The entire Kilsyth Basketball Community wishes Sharon all the best at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics.

For more information on refereeing at Kilsyth visit at www.kilsythbasketball.com.au