Imad Driouach in the FIBA World Cup Qualifier game.

MIES (Switzerland) - As the Pre-Competition Programme (PCP) gathers momentum ahead of the FIBA summer competitions, two new referees of the Elite Programme are already embracing both the challenge and the opportunity that come with it. Travis Steward of Australia and Imad Driouach of Morocco arrive from different backgrounds, but their first impressions reveal the same themes: professionalism, motivation, discipline, and a strong desire to improve.

For Steward, the first contact with the Pre-Competition Programme immediately highlighted the standard of the environment. “My first impression of the PCP was how professional, detailed, and high-performing the environment is.” That feeling has only grown stronger as he has progressed through the opening weeks. “From the beginning, it was clear that the programme is designed to challenge referees both technically and personally, while creating a strong sense of connection across referees from different countries and backgrounds.” He also underlined how much he has valued the overall experience so far: “So far, I have really enjoyed the experience and the opportunity to learn from experienced instructors and referees who all share the same passion for officiating and continuous improvement.”

Beyond those first impressions, Steward describes a programme that is already shaping his confidence and decision-making. The online working sessions have stood out through their video breakdowns, game management discussions, and shared analysis of referee play coverage, all of which help translate expectations at the international level into practical learning. He also explains that the time demands of the PCP feel familiar, thanks to his experience balancing professional officiating in Australia with work, travel, preparation, and recovery. That same structure carries into his physical preparation, where running, strength work, and recovery remain essential parts of a weekly routine designed to support consistent performance in a tournament environment.

Travis Stewart in the FIBA U17 Oceania Cup game.

Driouach’s first impressions reflect a similar sense of purpose, shaped by enthusiasm and responsibility from the very beginning. “My first impression when joining the PCP was a mix of excitement, motivation, and responsibility.” Like Steward, he quickly recognized the level required to succeed in this environment. “Being surrounded by dedicated referees from different backgrounds immediately showed me the high standards and professionalism of the programme.” His overall verdict on the experience so far is equally positive: “So far, the experience has been extremely positive and enriching, both technically and personally.”

For Driouach, the value of the Pre-Competition Programme also lies in the structure of its learning process. He points to the clarity of the online sessions, especially in areas such as game management, mechanics, and decision-making, while the video analysis work helps bring real game situations to life and sharpen judgment and communication on the court. Off-screen, he relies on discipline and careful planning to balance professional responsibilities, personal life and programme commitments. Physical training remains a non-negotiable part of that process, with running, mobility, strength, and recovery all helping him maintain the level of focus, movement, and performance required for refereeing at this stage. Together, the reflections of Steward and Driouach offer a clear picture of what the Pre-Competition Programme represents for new Elite Programme referees: a demanding pathway, but also an inspiring one, built on growth, connection and the pursuit of excellence.

FIBA