THESSALONIKI (Greece) – FRIP workshop experts Simon Kirkland, Rui Alves, and Roberto Chiari praise the dedication and innovative spirit of learners at the 2026 FIBA Referee Instructor Program Level 1 Face-to-Face Workshop in Greece.
From January 22–25, 2026, Thessaloniki served as the hub for the practical onsite workshop of the FIBA Referee Instructor Programme (FRIP) Level 1 Qualification. After completing nine-week online preparation phase, candidates arrived ready to sharpen their skills under the mentorship of international specialists. The workshop was specifically designed to equip these basketball professionals with the pedagogical skillset required to be effective instructors, ensuring that the next generation of referees will benefit from modern, quality training and support.

The first half of the workshop, led by Simon Kirkland (UK), focused on the art of Teaching and Learning. Kirkland emphasized that the key to modern instruction is blending refereeing expertise with innovative educational learning methods. He observed that this specific group possessed an obvious "thirst for learning and fun," which allowed them to create interactive sessions that will significantly improve training in their home Federations. This focus on "learning by doing" ensured that the candidates didn't just absorb information but learned how to apply it effectively.

The second half of the programme explored technical expertise and game philosophy. Basketball Coach Rui Alves (Portugal) guided the group through basketball knowledge, noting that understanding the evolving language of players and coaches is essential for any instructor to stay relevant. He further explained that because the game is constantly changing, instructors must embrace lifelong learning to effectively pass on the latest WABC trends to their students. 

On the final day, Roberto Chiari (Italy) focused on the nuances of refereeing, specifically emphasizing the importance of using precise terminology. He noted that the candidates were well-prepared in every respect, allowing the sessions to dive deep into these critical details. Chiari praised the success of the workshop, attributing it to the active participation, listening skills, and collective contribution of the entire group.

The conclusion of the Thessaloniki workshop marks a major step in FIBA’s mission to standardize global referee education. By mastering modern instructional techniques, these newly qualified referee instructors are now equipped to inspire and lead within their own Federations. This collective commitment ensures that the global basketball community will benefit from a more professional and consistent approach to training. As these educators return home, the expertise shared in Greece will serve as a foundation for developing the next generation of global referees.

FIBA