Posted on 19 March, 2008

Sharon received a personal invitation by Canadian Maureen Orchard who is the President of the IWBF.  Her role will include being the senior referee, appointer and referee coach for the Tournament and be known as the Commissioner.  Throughout the week Sharon will evaluate and coach referees and assist in their development.

“I find this another step towards my future within the Basketball world.  I have been extremely lucky in my active refereeing role and it is important to put back into the system.  I couldn’t think of any better way than being on the world stage,” said Sharon.

Following the 2008 IWBF World Cup Sharon will act as the first ever female Commissioner appointed to a Paralympic Games when she travels to the Beijing Olympics.

Kilsyth Basketball General Manager Grant Wallace highlighted the great contribution Sharon Arnold makes by passing on her expertise to all the Association referees.  He also pointed out the recent success of fellow Kilsyth referees Brad Geirsch and Raul Kirsten. 

Brad refereed the NBL Grand Final series between the Tigers and Kings and has been personally invited to officiate at the Pre-Olympic Tournament.  Raul recently completed his role as referee of the WNBL Semi, Preliminary and Grand Finals.

“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, Raul and Brad 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 wish Sharon all the best at the 2008 IWBF World Cup.

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