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Behind the Whistle: Elvis Binders-Coders
Every time a whistle blows, there is a person behind it with their own unique story. 


Aline García (Uruguay)

 

What is the most memorable experience you have ever had related to basketball officiating?My first international tournament in Tbilisi in 2022 was a dream come true. It was doubly special because my brother was also there, making his debut as a national team head coach.

Name one referee you have learned a lot from.
Andris Aunkrogers has mentored me on and off the court since the beginning of my career. His belief in my development helped me understand the values and responsibilities that come with being a professional official.

How do you recharge after a particularly tough game?
I reset mentally by spending time with family and engaging in high-energy sports like kickboxing or cycling. Physically, I rely on a mix of sauna sessions and cold baths to help my body recover after intense games.

What is your process for objective self-critique and moving forward after a challenging game?
I start by determining whether lower performance was due to technical issues or a shift in mental focus. I then analyze the footage and consult with trusted colleagues to gain the perspective needed to fix those specific areas.

What is your greatest strength in officiating?
My greatest strengths are my professional presence and my commitment to giving 100% effort, regardless of the level of competition. I am now focused on utilizing FIBA’s educational resources to achieve greater consistency and reliability.