Whitehorse Makes History With All-Female Officiating Crew

Whitehorse Makes History With All-Female Officiating Crew

Whitehorse Basketball marked a historic milestone during the 2026 Girls Showcase Round, hosting the association and Technical Officials Commission’s first-ever fully female officiating roster at any stadium.

From opening the stadium at 6:45am to the opening tip-off, through to the final siren and packing it all up, female officials led games across the day. This showcased the strength of Whitehorse’s partnership with the Camberwell TOC in developing pathways and highlighted the growing number of women confidently stepping into officiating roles.

The showcase was about more than representation. It also supported fundraising and awareness for Breast Cancer Network Australia as part of the Pink Sport initiative. Experienced referee coaches provided guidance and mentoring throughout the day, while venue supervisors ensured games ran smoothly and professionally.

From trainees officiating early matches to seasoned officials mentoring the next generation, the day demonstrated the power of community pathways in sport and the importance of visible role models. The Girls Showcase Round celebrated participation, opportunity, and confidence, showing young athletes that officiating is a pathway open to everyone.

Whitehorse Basketball looks forward to building on this milestone and continuing to work with the Camberwell TOC to grow female participation across refereeing and technical officiating programs.

Officials Honour Roll

Referees

• Brigette McKay — VJBL/CBL State Panel
• Sienna Gabrielson — B Grade
• Alex Roache — C Grade
• Evelyn Frayne — C Grade
• Jemma Tan — C Grade
• Sophie Coleman — C Grade
• Zoe Hilton — C Grade

Developing Officials

• Maya Hilton — Apprentice
• Ruby De Marco — Trainee

Venue Supervisors

• Grace Hersbach
• Isabella Pastore

Referee Coaches

• Brigette McKay — Basketball Victoria Grade 1
• Isabella Pastore — Basketball Victoria Grade 1