APIA (Samoa) – A passionate mother and son duo, Joyce and Jaycee Stevenson, recently participated in a rewarding program delivered by the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and FIBA, aimed at improving basketball officiating and coaching in Samoa.

This ADF and FIBA initiative is an example of Basketball for Good, promoting positive social change through the sport of basketball.  By equipping Samoans with the skills and knowledge to officiate and coach at a higher level, the program empowers them to contribute to the growth and development of basketball in their communities.

“Collaborating with the ADF on initiatives such as this, enables us to reach National Federations across the region with meaningful education and training programs for coaches, and officials,” FIBA Executive Director – Oceania, Amanda Jenkins said.  “These partnerships are invaluable for developing our basketball communities, this time in Samoa on the back of a similar program conducted last year in Papua New Guinea.”

Reflecting on the program, the Stevensons made the trip from Savai’i to further develop their basketball knowledge.  Jaycee, an aspiring table official, highlighted the program's focus on accuracy and the valuable skills he gained. 

"The biggest thing I have learnt and will take back to my community is the use of different coloured pens," Stevenson laughed. "I'm going to apply this as soon as I return home to engage our basketball community, and teach others how to be table officials, using the basic skills we have learnt during this program."

Jaycee’s mother, Joyce, a referee from the South-West Association, echoed her enthusiasm for the program's educational value. A referee educator herself, recognises the importance of passing on her newly acquired knowledge to aspiring referees in Samoa.

"Being an educator, I still have a lot to learn in the promotion and teaching of up-and-coming referees in Samoa, being able to learn more,” she said.  “The ADF and FIBA have given us a lot of feedback and education that will assist in our ongoing development.  We have a long way to go, but this training has been very helpful."

The Stevensons agree that these programs are vital for the growth of basketball in Samoa.  They highlighted the importance of ongoing education and skill development, including opportunities to gain accreditation and share knowledge with others.

Joyce's desire to see more training offered within Samoa reflects the program's focus on building capacity and creating a sustainable pathway for future generations of Samoan basketball officials.